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The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes (Johns Hopkins New Translations from Antiquity),Used
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A classical epic of fratricide and war, the Thebaid retells the legendary conflict between the sons of OedipusPolynices and Eteoclesfor control of the city of Thebes. The Latin poet Statius reworks a familiar story from Greek myth, dramatized long before by Aeschylus in his tragedy Seven against Thebes. Statius chose his subject well: the Rome of his day, ruled by the emperor Domitian, was not too distant from the civil wars that had threatened the survival of the empire. Published in 92 A.D., the Thebaid was an immediate success, and its fame grew in succeeding centuries. It reached its peak of popularity in the later Middle Ages and Renaissance, influencing Dante, Chaucer, and perhaps Shakespeare. In recent times, however, it has received perhaps less attention than it deserves, in large part because there has been no accessible, dynamic translation of the work into English.Charles Stanley Ross offers a compelling version of the Thebaid rendered into forceful, modern English. Casting Statius's Latin hexameter into a lively iambic pentameter more natural to the modern ear, Ross frees the work from the archaic formality that has marred previous translations. His translation reinvigorates the Thebaid as a whole: its meditative first half and its violent second half; its intimate portrayal of defeat and retribution, and the need to seek justice at any cost. In a wideranging introduction, Ross provides an overview of the poem: its composition, reception and legacy; its major themes and literary influences; and its place in Statius' life. And in a helpful series of notes, he offers background information on the major characters and incidents.
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- Q: How many pages does 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' have? A: This book has four hundred thirty-two pages. It offers an in-depth retelling of the epic conflict surrounding Thebes.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type of this book is hardcover. This solid construction helps protect the pages and adds durability.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes'? A: The author is Publius Papinius Statius. He was a prominent Latin poet from ancient Rome.
- Q: What is the size of 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes'? A: The dimensions of this book are five point nine eight inches in length, one point three eight inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. This size makes it easy to handle and read.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: The genre of 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' is classical epic poetry. It explores themes of war, fratricide, and justice.
- Q: Is 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' suitable for young readers? A: Yes, it is suitable for mature young readers due to its complex themes. However, parental guidance may be advised because of the violent content.
- Q: How does one read 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes'? A: You can read this book as you would any other. Simply open the book and follow the text from beginning to end, engaging with its themes and characters.
- Q: Is there an introduction in this book? A: Yes, there is a comprehensive introduction. It provides an overview of the poem's composition, themes, and historical context.
- Q: Are there notes included in 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes'? A: Yes, there are helpful notes included. These notes offer background information on major characters and incidents to enhance understanding.
- Q: How should I care for 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes'? A: To care for this book, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending the spine and keep it on a flat surface.
- Q: Is this book available in a digital format? A: No, this listing is for a hardcover edition only. Check with publishers or bookstores for digital versions.
- Q: Can I return 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can typically return it within a specified period. Check the retailer's return policy for specific details.
- Q: What if 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' arrives damaged? A: If it arrives damaged, contact the seller immediately for a return or exchange. Keep all packaging materials for the return process.
- Q: How does 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' compare to other classical epics? A: It offers a unique perspective on themes of civil conflict and justice, similar to works like 'The Iliad' and 'The Aeneid', but focuses specifically on the plight of Oedipus' sons.
- Q: Is the language in 'The Thebaid: Seven against Thebes' modern or archaic? A: The translation by Charles Stanley Ross uses modern English. This makes the text more accessible while preserving Statius's original intent.