The Aeneid Book Summary

In 'The Aeneid,' Virgil weaves an epic tale of heroism, destiny, and divine intervention as Aeneas, a Trojan warrior, embarks on a quest to found a new homeland in Italy. Captivatingly rich in myth and prophecy, the narrative explores themes of duty and sacrifice against the backdrop of war and the whims of the gods. Aeneas faces treacherous foes and intoxicating love, leading to his heart-wrenching choices that shape the future of Rome. The story melds personal struggle with the greater saga of civilization, challenging readers to ponder the cost of greatness. Will Aeneas fulfill his fate, or will the forces of fate and passion lead him astray?

By Virgil

Published: 2008

"Forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit."

Book Review of The Aeneid

From the award-winning translator of The Iliad and The Odyssey comes a brilliant new translation of Virgil's great epic Fleeing the ashes of Troy, Aeneas, Achilles’ mighty foe in the Iliad, begins an incredible journey to fulfill his destiny as the founder of Rome. His voyage will take him through stormy seas, entangle him in a tragic love affair, and lure him into the world of the dead itself--all the way tormented by the vengeful Juno, Queen of the Gods. Ultimately, he reaches the promised land of Italy where, after bloody battles and with high hopes, he founds what will become the Roman empire. An unsparing portrait of a man caught between love, duty, and fate, the Aeneid redefines passion, nobility, and courage for our times. Robert Fagles, whose acclaimed translations of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey were welcomed as major publishing events, brings the Aeneid to a new generation of readers, retaining all of the gravitas and humanity of the original Latin as well as its powerful blend of poetry and myth. Featuring an illuminating introduction to Virgil’s world by esteemed scholar Bernard Knox, this volume lends a vibrant new voice to one of the seminal literary achievements of the ancient world. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.

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Forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit.

The Aeneid

By Virgil