The Aeneid

This epic poem, inspired by Homer and influential for Dante and Milton, follows Aeneas on his journey from Troy to Italy, exploring themes of love, war, and human resilience. The Aeneid is a cornerstone of Western literature.

The Aeneid, written by Virgil, is a seminal work that has profoundly influenced Western literature and culture. Drawing inspiration from Homer's epics and serving as a precursor for Dante and Milton, this enduring poem captures the complexities of human experience through the journey of its hero, Aeneas. In a narrative marked by themes of dispossession, love, and conflict, Virgil explores both the nobility and suffering inherent in human life.

Set against the backdrop of a century of civil unrest in Rome and Italy, Virgil penned The Aeneid as a tribute to Emperor Augustus, celebrating his legendary ancestor Aeneas. As a patriotic epic, it not only seeks to emulate the grandeur of Greek literature but also aims to establish a literary foundation for Rome that would stand alongside its Greek counterparts. The poem follows Aeneas, who survives the fall of Troy and embarks on a tumultuous seven-year odyssey that takes him to Carthage, where he experiences a tragic romance with Queen Dido, then to the underworld, and ultimately to Italy, where he lays the groundwork for the future city of Rome.

Through its rich narrative and profound themes, The Aeneid presents a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the quest for identity. It has been lauded for its poetic beauty and depth, with Tennyson describing it as the stateliest measure ever moulded by the lips of man. This translation, accompanied by an introduction by David West, seeks to convey the nuances and subtleties of the original text, ensuring that Virgil's timeless story continues to resonate with readers today.