The Poems Of Catullus

byGaius Valerius Catullus, Stephanie McCarter (Translator)

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Paperback

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In his short life, the Roman aristocrat Catullus (84-54 B.C.E) wrote only a single book of poetry, but in it lies some of the most raw and forceful depictions of the vagaries of human emotion to be produced in the ancient world. In the 113 poems featured in this edition, Catullus’ lyricism is equally as romantic as it is violent, capable of capturing the fleeting moments of a burgeoning romance and the cold despondence of its dissolution. McCarter’s new translation considers the nuances of sexuality and gender in Ancient Rome and animates the colourful lyricism of Catullus, a poet who deftly ensconced readers in the extremes of emotion: from tender admiration of friends to the bitter scorn of foes, from unbridled passion between lovers to religious fanaticism for Gods. This edition includes facing Latin text, ideal for any academic study of Catullus.

About Gaius Valerius Catullus

Very little is known about Gaius Valerius Catullus, though he was probably born around 84BC. He writes as a friend of Cicero and other leading figures, and appears as a leader of the new movement in poetry and a lover of the notorious Clodia Metelli, who was probably the Lesbia of the poems. He started writing in 69 or 68 and died around 54BC.
Details
  • Imprint: Penguin Classics
  • ISBN: 9780143136378
  • Length: 256 pages
  • Price: £14.99