The Fourth Book of Virgil's Aeneid and the Ninth Book of Voltaire's Henriad

Voltaire · Virgil

Dec 2019 · Good Press

About this ebook

The anthology 'The Fourth Book of Virgil's Aeneid and the Ninth Book of Voltaire's Henriad' commingles the epic and the enlightenment in a tapestry of thematic potency and stylistic variance that transcends centuries. By pairing these distinctive literary epochs, the collection illuminates the transformative power of love and heroism across time, interpreted through the prisms of classical epic poetry and Enlightenment-era philosophical discourse. It is a vivid showcase of the evolution of literary forms and the enduring nature of its central themes, offering readers a unique juxtaposition of Virgil's lasting influence on Western literature alongside Voltaire's critique and expansion of classical ideals in his work. The contributing authors, Virgil and Voltaire, stand as towering figures in their respective periods, crafting narratives that have shaped literary discourse and philosophical thought for millennia. Virgil's Aeneid, a cornerstone of Latin literature, offers a view into the Augustan age's ideals, while Voltaire's Henriad reflects the questioning and transformative spirit of the Enlightenment. Their backgroundsVirgil, an ancient Roman poet, and Voltaire, a French Enlightenment writerembody the diverse yet interconnected trajectories of Western literary and intellectual history, bridging gaps between antiquity and modernity. This anthology is recommended for readers keen on exploring the richness of literary synthesis, where the epic grandeur of the Ancients meets the incisive wit of the Enlightenment. It presents a rare opportunity to engage with the works of two masters in conversation, underscoring the continuity and change in literary expressions of human nature and society. For scholars, students, and enthusiasts of literature, 'The Fourth Book of Virgil's Aeneid and the Ninth Book of Voltaire's Henriad' promises an enriching journey through the landscapes of love, heroism, and human destiny, chronicled by voices that have profoundly shaped our world.