Prudentius' Psychomachia

A new translation of Prudentius Psychomachia, one of the most widely read poems in Western Europe from Late Antiquity through the Renaissance, brings to life the poem's themes and influence. The introduction provides a historical and literary context, while the notes offer in-depth information on Prudentius' Latinity, the Roman epic tradition, and Christian doctrine. The volume is aimed at students and scholars of comparative literature, classics, religion, and ancient and medieval studies, as well as any reader interested in the history and development of literature in the West.

Format: Hardback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This new translation breathes new life into Prudentius' Psychomachia, one of the most widely read poems in Western Europe from Late Antiquity through the Renaissance. Accompanied by comprehensive notes and an insightful introduction, this volume offers a fresh perspective on its themes and enduring influence.

Prudentius, a poet of the late antique period (348–c. 405), crafted an allegorical epic poem of nearly 1,000 lines, known as the Psychomachia. This remarkable work delves into the intense battle between the virtues and the vices for control of the human soul. Early modern scholars hailed Prudentius as the Christian Vergil, recognizing his profound influence on the literary landscape.

The Psychomachia seamlessly blends vivid descriptions of violent, single combats with allusions to pagan epic poetry, biblical scenes, and Christian doctrine. It captures the dynamic essence of the later Roman Empire, where the pagan world was gradually giving way to a new, Christian Europe. Through its rich tapestry of imagery and symbolism, the poem offers a profound reflection on the human condition, morality, and the struggle between good and evil.

In this volume, the introduction provides a historical and literary context, shedding light on the Psychomachia's prominent role in Western literary history. Mastrangelos' translation aims to convey the rhetorical power of Prudentius' Roman Christian Latin to the contemporary reader, while the notes offer in-depth insights into Prudentius' Latinity, the Roman epic tradition, and Christian doctrine.

This volume is designed to appeal to students and scholars across a wide range of disciplines, including comparative literature, classics, religion, and ancient and medieval studies. It also captivates any reader with an interest in the history and development of literature in the West. By delving into the Psychomachia's themes and significance, this translation offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of medieval literature and its enduring impact on the world of ideas.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367205232