Classical Epic: Homer and Virgil

by Richard Jenkyns

In the ancient world Homer was recognised as the fountainhead of culture. His poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey, were universally admired as examples of great literature which could never be surpassed. In this study, Richard Jenkyns re-examines the two Homeric epics and the work that is perhaps their closest rival, the Aeneid of Virgil. A wide range of topics is covered, including chapters on heroism and tragedy in the Iliad, morality in the Odyssey and Virgil's skilful reworking of elements from the two earlier epics.

Essential reading for those who are unfamiliar with the works of Homer and Virgil, the author's lively and provocative approach will also appeal to more experienced scholars of classical literature.

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

Richard Jenkyns is emeritus Professor of the Classical Tradition and the Public Orator at the University of Oxford. His books include Virgil's Experience and Victorians and Ancient Greece, acclaimed as "masterly" by History Today.

Reviews

[Scarlett Barnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Richard Jenkyns almost as much as I love Robert Fagles and that is high praise