Greek iambic poetry : from the seventh to the fifth centuries BC / edited and translated by Douglas E. Gerber.

Format:

Book

Contributor:

Gerber, Douglas E.

Series:

Loeb classical library ; 259.

The Loeb classical library ; 259

Language:

English

Greek, Ancient (to 1453)

Subjects (All):

Iambic poetry, Greek--Translations into English.

Iambic poetry, Greek.

Physical Description:

viii, 551 pages ; 17 cm.

Place of Publication:

Cambridge, Mass. ; London : Harvard University Press, 1999.

Summary:

The poetry of the archaic period that the Greeks called iambic is characterized by scornful criticism of friend and foe and by sexual license. The purpose of these poems is unclear, but they seem to have some connection with cult songs used in religious festivals--for example, those honoring Dionysus and Demeter. In this completely new Loeb Classical Library edition of early Greek iambic poetry, Douglas E. Gerber provides a faithful and fully annotated translation of the fragments that have come down to us.

Archilochus expressed himself in colorful and vigorous language. Famous throughout antiquity for his winged barbs, he is often considered the archetypal poet of blame. Other major poets in this volume are Semonides, best known for a long misogynistic poem describing ten types of wives; and Hipponax, who was much admired by the poets of Hellenistic Alexandria, in part for his depictions of the licentious and seamy side of society.

Contents:

Archilochus

Testimonia 14

Text 76

Semonides

Testimonia 294

Text 298

Hipponax

Testimonia 342

Text 352

Ananius

Testimonia 500

Text 502

Susarion 510

Hermippus 512

Scythinus 520

Diphilus 524

Panarces 528

Adespota 532.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 11-12).

ISBN:

0674995813

OCLC:

39195330