A guest post by Laura Ford We have all heard stories of “book burnings” that leave us with a sense of horror at the irretrievable loss of priceless literary and artistic treasures. In some cases, as in the burning of the Library of Alexandria, the true cause of the burning will probably never be known. In other cases, a specific political intent to suppress the content of the books is… Read more
…Latinus himself was amazed at these mighty men, born at opposite ends of the world, meeting and deciding the outcome with their swords. As soon as the field was clear on the open plain, they both dashed quickly forward, hurling their spears first from a distance, rushing, with shield and ringing bronze, to battle. The earth groaned: they redoubled their intense sword-strokes, chance and skill mingled together. (Aeneid 12.707–714, translated… Read more
While thus in distant region moves the war, down to bold Turnus Saturn’s daughter sends celestial Iris. In a sacred vale, the seat of worship at his grandsire’s tomb, Pilumnus, Faunus’ son, the hero mused. And thus the wonder-child of Thaumas called with lips of rose: (Aeneid 9.1–7 translated by Theodore C.Williams) In previous Book Club discussions we have read Virgil’s Aeneid Books 1–8, which covered the fall of Troy, the escape… Read more
Now had the flaming sun attained his way to the mid-sphere of heaven, when they discerned walls and a citadel in distant view, with houses few and far between; ‘t was there, where sovran Rome to-day has rivalled Heaven, Evander’s realm its slender strength displayed: swiftly they turned their prows and neared the town. (Aeneid 8.95–101, translated by A.S. Kline) In previous Book Club discussions we have read Virgil’s Aeneid Books 1–6,… Read more
Follow the handsome advice that old Nautus gives: take chosen youth, and the bravest hearts, to Italy. In Latium you must subdue a tough race, harshly trained. Yet, first, go to the infernal halls of Dis, and in deep Avernus seek a meeting with me, my son. For impious Tartarus, with its sad shades, does not hold me, I live in Elysium, and the lovely gatherings of the blessed. Here… Read more