Sketches and Studies in Italy and Greece, Second Series

"Sketches and Studies in Italy and Greece, Second Series" by John Addington Symonds is a travel memoir written in the late 19th century. The work reflects the author's journey through Italy and Greece, exploring the rich history, art, and culture of these regions. It delves into detailed observations of cities like Ravenna and Rimini, reflecting on their historical significance, architectural marvels, and natural beauty. The opening portion of the memoir begins with a vivid description of Ravenna, highlighting its ancient maritime roots and the eroding remnants of its once-bustling cities. Symonds paints a picture of the serene pine forests surrounding Ravenna, filled with flora and fauna, which inspired literary figures like Dante and Byron. He interweaves his observations of the landscape with historical reflections on the city’s past, mentioning prolific rulers and artistic legacies. As he moves on to describe the empty yet majestic ancient churches of Ravenna, he captures the haunting beauty and almost melancholic stillness of the area, inviting readers to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring nature of art and culture amidst decay. (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.