A New Sublime

This insightful exploration highlights the enduring relevance of ancient literature, particularly in A New Sublime, revealing its profound connections to modern life.

In A New Sublime, linguistic expert Piero Boitani invites readers on a journey through the timeless beauty of ancient literature. This exploration highlights the profound connections between classical works and contemporary life, revealing how these texts still resonate with modern themes and issues. Boitani emphasizes that the classics 'never exhaust what they have to say,' encouraging readers to engage with these foundational texts that underpin Western culture.

The book delves into a variety of enduring themes, such as the Iliad's exploration of power and war, alongside its poignant call for compassion as a cornerstone of society. It presents the Odyssey as the world's first novel, illustrating the transformative power of storytelling. Boitani also examines Lucretius, who masterfully turned Greek scientific thought into exquisite poetry, and Virgil's celebration of Rome's evolution from a small village to a global capital, as well as Tacitus' critical view of imperialistic tendencies.

Additionally, A New Sublime offers insights into Ovid's Metamorphoses, a poem that captures the essence of perpetual change, marking it as the first postmodern classic. Through these discussions, Boitani not only showcases the timeless relevance of these works but also inspires readers to appreciate the beauty and wisdom embedded in ancient literature, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the classics.