Virgil

Virgil's works, from the pastoral Bucolics to the epic Aeneid, have inspired a long tradition of interpretation and adaptation, shaping the canonical writings of other authors. This introduction appraises his importance in Western music, art, and literature, highlighting his reception of classical traditions and modern interest from writers such as T. S. Eliot and Ursula K. Le Guin.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Virgil, a renowned Latin poet from the 70s to 19 BCE, is celebrated for his unparalleled contributions to Latin poetry, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world. His works have inspired a rich tradition of interpretation and adaptation that spans centuries, beginning in his own time and extending to prominent modern authors. Virgil's remarkable journey from the pastoral genre of the Bucolics to the didactic mode of the Georgics and the epic heights of the Aeneid shaped the canonical writings of countless authors. From his younger contemporary Ovid to medieval giants Dante and Petrarch, to early modern poets Spenser and Milton, and even beyond, Virgil's influence can be seen in the works of countless writers.

Alison Keith's comprehensive introduction to Virgil delves into the significance of this influential figure in the history of Western music, art, and literature. Through close readings of the Bucolics, Georgics, and Aeneid, Keith provides a historical context for Virgil's poetry, highlighting its impact at pivotal moments in Western culture. The book emphasizes Virgil's reception of classical literary and philosophical traditions, showcasing how his poetry continues to captivate modern readers, including renowned figures such as T.S. Eliot and Ursula K. Le Guin.

Virgil's poetry is characterized by its exquisite craftsmanship, intricate imagery, and profound themes. His pastoral poems, such as the Bucolics, capture the essence of rural life and the simplicity of human relationships. The Georgics, on the other hand, offer a didactic message, advocating for a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. The Aeneid, considered one of the greatest epic poems in world literature, tells the story of the Trojan War and the founding of Rome.

Through his poetry, Virgil explored the complexities of human nature, the power of storytelling, and the role of fate in shaping our lives. His works continue to resonate with readers today, offering insights into the human condition and inspiring generations of artists, musicians, and writers. Virgil's legacy as a poet is truly enduring, and his influence on the literary world will continue to be felt for centuries to come.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 216 x 138 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848859203