Aeneid

Cristoforo Majorana - Leaf from Eclogues, Georgics and Aeneid - Walters W40055R - Open Obverse

Aeneid is an epic poem written by the ancient Roman poet Virgil between 29 and 19 BC. It comprises 12 books and is written in dactylic hexameter, a prestigious form of Latin verse. The poem narrates the legendary story of Aeneas, a Trojan who traveled to Italy, where he became the ancestor of the Romans. It is a central text in the canon of Western literature and has been studied for its themes of duty, heroism, and the founding of a nation.

Plot Summary

The Aeneid can be divided into two halves: Books 1-6 describe Aeneas's journey to Italy, and Books 7-12 cover the war in Italy. The poem opens with Aeneas fleeing the ruins of Troy, which has been sacked by the Greeks. After a perilous journey - including a stop in Carthage, where Aeneas has a doomed love affair with Dido, the queen of Carthage - he finally reaches the shores of Italy. The second half of the poem details the battles Aeneas must fight in Italy to establish a foothold for the future Roman people, culminating in his victory over the Latin forces.

Themes and Analysis

The Aeneid explores themes such as the role of fate in human lives, the duty to family and country, and the costs of war. Aeneas's journey is marked by constant struggles between his personal desires and his obligations to his destiny as the founder of Rome. The poem also reflects Augustan Rome's ideals and the emperor Augustus’s attempts to link his rule with the glory of Rome's mythical past.

Cultural Impact

The Aeneid has had a profound impact on Western literature and thought. It has been a model for epic poetry and has influenced countless works, including those of Dante Alighieri, John Milton, and James Joyce. Its themes and characters have permeated Western culture, making it a foundational text in the study of the classics.

Manuscript Tradition and Translation

The survival of the Aeneid through the manuscript tradition from antiquity to the Renaissance has allowed it to be a continuous influence on Western culture. It has been translated into every major language and numerous editions have been published, making it accessible to a wide audience.

See Also

• Epic poetry
• Roman mythology
• Virgil
• Troy
• Augustus