The Poetry of Ennodius: Translated with an Introduction and Notes

The Poetry of Ennodius is the first English translation of the entire eclectic corpus of sacred and secular poetry by Magnus Felix Ennodius (c. 473/4–521 CE), supplemented by detailed notes that elucidate the literary and cultural references essential for understanding this poet. It offers a remarkable window into how Roman literary culture continued to thrive in the aftermath of the traditional fall of Rome in 476 CE. The book is accessible to readers unfamiliar with Latin and provides a guide into the labyrinthine literary world of this challenging but rewarding poet.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Poetry of Ennodius presents the first comprehensive translation into English verse of the diverse body of sacred and secular poetry composed by Magnus Felix Ennodius (circa 473/4-521 CE), extensively enriched with detailed annotations that elucidate the literary and cultural allusions essential for comprehending this poet. Ennodius' poetry offers a captivating glimpse into how Roman literary culture persisted and flourished even after the traditional collapse of Rome in 476 CE. A prolific writer of prose and poetry, Ennodius actively engaged in the political and ecclesiastical controversies of Ostrogothic Italy and holds a significant position as a prominent representative of late antique literary culture. This volume presents readers with a rich tapestry of poetic works, including panegyrics, travelogues, hymns, epistles, and epigrams, compiled after Ennodius' death. From the grandiose Declamation for the anniversary of the holy and most blessed Bishop Epiphanius in his 30th year as bishop of Pavia to self-deprecating descriptions of silverware that bears the poet's image, Ennodius' poetry playfully defies expectations, crafting verse that ranges from the picturesque to the conventional to the astonishingly unconventional, while consistently showcasing a profound understanding of the literary traditions in which he writes and a deep connection with previous authors, both from the distant classical past and the contemporary world of late antique prose and poetry. Through these poems, readers gain an insightful appreciation of the intellectual and artistic milieu of a prominent bishop (and future saint) in the early sixth century CE.

Featuring a clear and concise line-by-line translation from Latin and comprehensive notes—both informative and scholarly—this edition is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of ancient literature and culture.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 215 x 138 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032196503