The Mythic Voice of Statius: Power and Politics in the Thebaid (Mnemosyne, Bibliotheca Classica Batava Supplementum) (Mnemosyne Supplements) [Hardcover]

William J. Dominik (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 9004099727 | ISBN-13: 978-9004099722 | Publication Date: August 1, 1997

This study examines the thematic design and intent of Statius's "Thebaid" and considers the question of its contemporary relevance. It focuses on the central theme of power, how it is exercised on the supernatural and human levels and the consequences of its pursuit and abuse in terms of the human condition. The ensuing discussion explores the political undercurrents of the epic. The discussion is in four main parts: use and abuse of supernatural power; pursuit and abuse of monarchal power; consequences of the abuse of power; and political allusions to contemporary Rome. The views expressed represent a fundamental departure from previous studies and constitute a critical reassessment of the "Thebaid". Translations make the book accessible to the Latinless reader.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'"Students of Statius will be grateful to Dominik for the extensive and up-to-date bibliography he provides, and by the chronology of Statius' life that reflects the current state of thought on the subject.'
Stephen T. Newmyer, "Bryn Mawr Classical Review, 1995.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 198 pages
• Publisher: Brill Academic Pub (August 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9004099727
• ISBN-13: 978-9004099722
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #10,181,871 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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