Studies of the Greek Poets (Vol 2 of 2)

"Studies of the Greek Poets (Vol 2 of 2)" by John Addington Symonds is a scholarly analysis written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the evolution of Greek tragedy and the contributions of its key figures, such as Euripides, Aeschylus, and Sophocles, as it examines the cultural and historical contexts that shaped their art. The emphasis lies on the significance of concepts like nemesis and moral philosophy within the tragedies, exploring how these themes resonate throughout Greek literature. The opening of the volume sets the stage for a comprehensive discussion on Greek tragedy, particularly focusing on Euripides and his distinctive approach to the genre. Symonds reflects on the conditions that foster national drama, such as the vibrant Athens post-Persian war, and establishes how the poets responded to societal changes and audience expectations. He highlights key elements like the religious underpinnings of tragedies, the shifts in dramatic technique, and how Euripides' works, though seen as less heroic compared to his predecessors, were innovative for incorporating emotional depth and realism into the portrayal of personal and political struggles. The analysis hints at a rich examination of these ancient works and their lasting impact on literature and theater. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Addington Symonds Jr. was an English poet and literary critic. A cultural historian, he was known for his work on the Renaissance, as well as numerous biographies of writers and artists. Although married with children, Symonds supported male love (homosexuality), which he believed could include pederastic as well as egalitarian relationships, referring to it as l'amour de l'impossible. He also wrote much poetry inspired by his same-sex affairs.