Sketches and Studies in Italy and Greece, Complete Series I, II, and III

"Sketches and Studies in Italy and Greece" by John Addington Symonds is a collection of travel essays written in the late 19th century. The work captures the author's reflections on his journeys through Italy and Greece, exploring not only the landscapes but also the cultural and historical contexts surrounding them. Symonds presents a deep appreciation for nature, particularly the Alps, and examines the evolution of humans' relationship with mountainous regions throughout history. The opening of the work begins with a vivid description of the arrival into Switzerland after a long journey, highlighting the transformative effect of the landscape. Symonds reflects on the enchanting allure of the Alps, contrasting it with the classical disdain for mountains expressed by ancient Greek and Roman poets. He ponders the cultural shifts that have led to a newfound love for nature and mountains, attributing it to the changes in society during the 18th and 19th centuries. This initial exploration sets the tone for a broader examination of travel, the appreciation of natural beauty, and the historical context of the places he visits. (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.