Appendix Ovidiana

This collection features medieval Latin poetry attributed to Ovid, encompassing themes of nature, eroticism, and religion. It provides insights into how Ovid's legacy evolved from the sixth to the fifteenth century.

Appendix Ovidiana is a significant collection that showcases a range of poetry attributed to the renowned Classical poet Ovid, despite being composed in the Middle Ages. This anthology encompasses various themes, including nature, eroticism, and religious reflections, revealing the diverse interpretations of Ovid's work over the centuries. It represents the first comprehensive collection and English translation of these medieval Latin verses, which have often been overlooked.

The question of when imitation becomes masquerade is central to understanding the Appendix Ovidiana. Although Ovid passed away in the first century CE, numerous Latin poems were attributed to him from the sixth to the fifteenth century. These poems, similar to the Appendix Vergiliana, offer insights into how later generations perceived and reinterpreted the legacy of this esteemed poet. The medieval Ovid's works reflect a rich variety that echoes the themes and styles of the original Ovid, while also showcasing the unique cultural and historical contexts of their time.

The collection features narrative poetry that tells the tales of both real and mythical beings, erotic poetry that explores intense desires and the complexities of sexual violence, and religious poetry that, despite Ovid's pagan roots, contemplates the Christian narrative of birth, death, and resurrection. Appendix Ovidiana not only enriches our understanding of Ovid's influence but also highlights the creative expressions of medieval poets, making it an essential read for those interested in the evolution of literary traditions.