Tradition and Innovation in Hellenistic Poetry

Hellenistic poets of the third and second centuries BC were concerned with the need both to mark their continuity with the classical past and to demonstrate their independence from it. In this revised and expanded translation of Muse e modelli: la poesia ellenistica da Alessandro Magno ad Augusto, Greek poetry of the third and second centuries BC and its reception and influence at Rome are explored allowing both sides of this literary practice to be appreciated. Genres as diverse as epic and epigram are considered from a historical perspective, in the full range of their deep-level structures, providing a different perspective on the poetry and its influence at Rome. Some of the most famous poetry of the age such as Callimachus' Aitia and Apollonius' Argonautica is examined. In addition, full attention is paid to the poetry of encomium, in particular the newly published epigrams of Posidippus, and Hellenistic poetics, notably Philodemus.

Provides close readings of some of the most famous Greek poetry of the Hellenistic period
Offers detailed examinations of newly discovered Greek poetry and poetic criticism
Sheds light on the reception of Greek poetry in Rome

Reviews & endorsements

Review of the hardback: '… this invaluable and endlessly engaging book splendidly reflects their scholarly priorities and pleasures.' Journal of Classics Teaching

Review of the hardback: '… a book so full that it defies summary. … will undoubtedly become an indispensable starting-point for many generations of students and scholars, presenting as it does the culmination of many years' thinking and writing on the part of both of its distinguished authors.' Hermathena

'Wary of generalization that only simplify or obscure, Fantuzzi and Hunter are right to have invested most of their energy in the scrutiny of details; it has enable them to produce the most formidable synthesis of Hellenistic poetic developments yet written.' The Times Literary Supplement

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