El estudio de la literatura latina

Abstract

This lecture discusses some important aspects of Latin literature in order to elucidate the most rewarding lines of approach both for the student and for the scholar. Firstly it attempts to evaluate its traditionalism and advocates a more detailed assessment of the originality (and (dependence) of Latin literature by distinguishing the factors evolving from the general influence of Greek culture (education), the features deliberately taken from a particular genre or a particular model, and the elements chosen from the Roman tradition, and by examining the manner in which they have been combined, in the light of the writer’s intentions, not least of all with reference to the public which he is addressing. Secondly, the oral publication of most of the ancient literature is emphasized, and the consequences are drawn for our understanding and appreciation, thirdly the relationship is considered between the social status of an author and the literary genre(s) which he chooses.