Overview

Callimachus was one of the most important Greek poets, and can also be one of the most rewarding to read. He was a pivotal figure in the history of ancient literature and an influential presence in later ancient poetry, including Catullus and Vergil. Yet his work is not read and enjoyed as much as it could be. This new volume in the popular Ancients in Action series seeks to bring Callimachus to a wide audience, addressing the problems with currently available scholarship, which assumes a professional level of expertise, including full knowledge of Greek. Rawles presents a much-needed introduction to Callimachus’ poetry and is intended for the non-specialist reader and student, assuming no knowledge of Greek. The book is organised in thematic chapters, rich in quotation (in translation), with selective annotations and guidance for further study and reading.

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9781474254861

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An interesting, admirable, and largely successful effort to squeeze a gallon into a pint pot. * Classics for All *

An interesting, admirable, and largely successful effort to squeeze a gallon into a pint pot. * Classics for All * [Explains] Callimachus’ poetry in a clear and approachable way ... R. does an admirable job of showcasing many of his virtues. For those who are familiar with Greek poetry (but are non-specialists or students), this is a helpful introduction to an understudied artist. * The Classical Review * This small volume ... comprises fine, very informed and very affordable readings of the essential pieces of Callimachus' poetry; the reader ignorant of Hellenistic poetry will find in these pages a sure and informed guide which gives all the keys to reading a complex and demanding literary production. It is an excellent introduction to Callimachus and an invitation to read and reread this essential poet, too little known to Hellenists. * Revue des Études Anciennes (Bloomsbury Translation) *

Author Information

Richard Rawles is lecturer in Greek at the University of Edinburgh, UK. He has published on a variety of topics in Greek literature, including Sappho, archaic and classical lyric, drama and Hellenistic poetry.

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