Sidonius Apollinaris Complete Poems

In the mid-fifth century AD, Sidonius Apollinaris lived in southern Roman Gaul, a region threatened by invasions and warlords. His poetic works, including panegyrics to emperors, are translated into English with comment and synopses. This book by Roger Green provides a firsthand account of the political strife and the lives of Sidonius and his friends, offering a fresh and updated approach to his poetry. Sidonius was widely read in the Middle Ages and has a renewed interest today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Sidonius Apollinaris, a resident of southern Roman Gaul in the mid-fifth century AD, lived in a time of great turmoil and upheaval. The region was plagued by invasions from beyond the boundaries of the Roman Empire and rival warlords who vied for power. Despite these challenges, Sidonius emerged as a talented poet and writer, producing a vast collection of poetic works.

Among his notable achievements, Sidonius composed three panegyrics dedicated to emperors at the beginning of their reigns. These panegyrics are meticulously translated and annotated, providing valuable insights into the political and social context of the time. Additionally, the author includes commentaries and synopses to enhance the reader's understanding of the poems.

In addition to the panegyrics, Sidonius wrote numerous shorter poems in various poetic forms. These poems are skillfully translated into English, capturing the essence of the original Latin and conveying them in a lively and engaging manner. Each poem is accompanied by separate introductions and notes that offer historical and literary context, enriching the reader's experience.

The book, authored by Roger Green, a renowned expert in Late Antiquity, provides a firsthand account of the political strife and manoeuvring of the times. It also offers a vivid portrayal of the lives of Sidonius and his like-minded friends during an almost post-Roman episode of Rome's existence. Sidonius enjoyed widespread popularity during the Middle Ages, experiencing a golden age in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries and a revival of Late Antique literature in the fifteenth century.

Today, Sidonius' poetry continues to captivate new scholars and enthusiasts. Thanks to modern translations that eschew archaism, his works can be appreciated by a broader audience without compromising their literary merit. The author's fresh and updated approach to various issues adds depth and relevance to Sidonius' poetry, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to explore the rich tapestry of late antiquity.

In conclusion, Sidonius Apollinaris was a remarkable poet and writer who lived in a turbulent period of history. His poetic works, including the panegyrics and shorter poems, offer a unique insight into the political, social, and cultural landscape of late antiquity. Roger Green's book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of Sidonius and his era, offering a firsthand account of the political strife and a vivid portrayal of the lives of his friends. Sidonius' poetry continues to resonate with readers today, and his works will undoubtedly inspire new study and interest for generations to come.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 157 x 219 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800348592