Trials of Orpheus: Poetry, Science, and the Early Modern Sublime

The Orpheus myth inspired Renaissance writers and thinkers to explore the power of verbal eloquence, which they saw as an aesthetic force capable of binding, drawing, softening, and scattering audiences. Jenny Mann's book "The Trials of Orpheus" demonstrates how the forms and figures of ancient poetry shaped the principles of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century scientific knowledge and produced some of the most canonical literature of the age.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In ancient Greek mythology, the mesmerizing melodies of Orpheus enchanted the gods and effortlessly commanded the obedience of animals, rocks, and trees. This mythic power ignited the imagination of Renaissance philosophers and poets, who sought to uncover the hidden depths of verbal eloquence. They delved into the profound question: How do words wield the power to initiate action?

In her captivating book, "The Trials of Orpheus," Jenny Mann explores the pivotal role that the Orpheus story played in aiding early modern writers and thinkers in comprehending the mechanisms of rhetorical force. Mann meticulously demonstrates how the forms and figures of ancient poetry etched indelible imprints on the principles of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century scientific knowledge.

Mann delves into how Ovid's rendition of the Orpheus myth provided English poets and natural philosophers with a rich lexicon to describe the extraordinary ability of language to move individuals without physical contact. These writers and thinkers began to perceive eloquence as an aesthetic force, capable of captivating, drawing, softening, and dispersing audiences. Through a comprehensive examination of examples from drama, poetry, and philosophy by renowned figures such as Bacon, Lodge, Marlowe, Montaigne, Shakespeare, and others, Mann showcases how the fascination with Orpheus yielded some of the most canonical literature of the age.

"The Trials of Orpheus" takes us on a journey into the profound influence of ancient Greek thought and poetry in the early modern era. It sheds light on how the powers of rhetoric became a central focus of English thought and literature, shaping the intellectual landscape of the time. By delving into the trials and tribulations of Orpheus, this book offers a rich tapestry of insights that continue to resonate with readers to this day.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 241 x 163 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691219226