Bookworm Fantasy
Virgil's Aeneid by Michael C.J. Putnam
Virgil's Aeneid by Michael C.J. Putnam
Regular price
R 250.00
Regular price
R 350.00
Sale price
R 250.00
Unit price
/
per
Interpretation and Influence
352 pages, Paperback
ISBN 9780807844991
Condition: Very Good (Has very small/minor signs of wear).
Genres: History & Criticism
In this collection of twelve essays, esteemed Virgil scholar Michael Putnam delves into the depths of the Aeneid, exploring the epic from various interpretive perspectives. Through meticulous analysis, Putnam uncovers the underlying themes that thread through the narrative, offers insightful interpretations of each book, and delves into the profound influence the poem has had on subsequent writers such as Ovid, Lucan, Seneca, and Dante.
Of particular note is a groundbreaking essay on the character of wrathful Aeneas and the nuances of Pietas, making its debut in this collection. Putnam begins by tracing the intellectual evolution that shaped Virgil's poetic vision, before delving into the recurring dichotomies and metaphors that imbue the Aeneid with depth and complexity - from idealism versus realism, to the symbolism of the line and the circle, and the interplay between piety and fury.
Subsequent chapters offer detailed examinations of specific books within the Aeneid, arguing that a close reading of the epic's conclusion is essential for grasping the poem in its entirety and understanding Virgil's overarching intentions in crafting this monumental work. Through Putnam's erudite analysis, readers are invited to embark on a journey of discovery through one of the greatest literary achievements of antiquity.