Seminar in Classical Literature: Roman Epic

Vergil’s Aeneid exerted a profound influence on all Latin poetry that followed. This seminar will examine the epic tradition after -- and in response to -- Vergil. We will explore defining aspects of post-Vergilian epic such as its obsession with evil, fascination with familial and civil violence, subversion of the gods, and political engagement. Readings will concentrate on poems such as Lucan’s Civil War, Statius’ Thebaid and Achilleid, Valerius Flaccus’ Argonautica (a.k.a. Jason and the Argonauts), and Silius’ Punic Wars. We will also examine the major trends in scholarly literature on these poems. 3 hrs. sem.