Hymns and Epigrams
Hymns and Epigrams by Callimachus, published by Harvard University Press in 1989, presents a collection of the surviving works of this influential 3rd century BCE poet. This edition encompasses 467 pages and is available in English. Callimachus, known for his role as a teacher and librarian in Alexandria, produced a significant body of work, of which only six hymns and sixty-three epigrams remain. The hymns are characterized by their learned and artificial style, while the epigrams are noted for their quality and are also included in the Loeb Greek Anthology volumes.
Readers will find a rich exploration of Greek poetry through Callimachus’s unique voice, alongside insights into the works of his contemporaries, such as Lycophron and Aratus. The text delves into the literary context of Alexandria during this period, highlighting the contributions of these poets to the cultural landscape. This edition serves as a valuable resource for those interested in Greek poetry and its translations into English, offering a glimpse into the artistic and intellectual pursuits of ancient scholars.
Official synopsis Publisher
Callimachus of Cyrene, 3rd century BCE, became after 284 a teacher of grammar and poetry at Alexandria. He was made a librarian in the new library there and prepared a catalogue of its books. He died about the year 240. Of his large published output, only 6 hymns, 63 epigrams, and fragments survive (the fragments are in Loeb no. 421). The hymns are very learned and artificial in style; the epigrams are good (they are also in the Loeb Greek Anthology volumes).
Lycophron of Chalcis in Euboea was a contemporary of Callimachus in Alexandria where he became supervisor of the comedies included in the new library. He wrote a treatise on these and composed tragedies and other poetry. We possess Alexandra or Cassandra wherein Cassandra foretells the fortune of Troy and the besieging Greeks. This poem is a curiosity―a showpiece of knowledge of obscure stories, names, and words.
Aratus of Soli in Cilicia, ca. 315–245 BCE, was a didactic poet at the court of Antigonus Gonatas of Macedonia, where he wrote his famous astronomical poem Phaenomena (Appearances). He was for a time in the court of Antiochus I of Syria but returned to Macedonia. Phaenomena was highly regarded in antiquity; it was translated into Latin by Cicero, Germanicus Caesar, and Avienus.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Hymns and Epigrams” about?
Who is the author of “Hymns and Epigrams”?
When was “Hymns and Epigrams” published?
What is the ISBN for “Hymns and Epigrams”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
