Why Horace?: A Collection of Interpretations

Rating:
Summary: Why not Horace?
Review: Everyone is at least vaguely familiar with the poetry of Horace, who coined such phrases as "Carpe Diem!"--"Seize the day!" Yet there is a depth to his work when these simple phrases are put into their original context. William Anderson's collection of interpretive essays focuses on Horace's renowned Odes and Satire 1.9, the very selections covered on the "AP Latin: Literature" exam.

This book would serve well either as a tool for teachers helping students to analyze the poetry, or for anyone who simply wishes to explore the depth of Horace's work. There is no need for familiarity with the original Latin text, as each essay is prefaced by a brief introduction that summarizes the Ode being analyzed. The critical essays deal with not only the themes of the poems, but also the structure of the language that Horace so masterfully manipulates. Both in the unique voice that he brings to the poetry and the topics covered, Horace appeals to a wide range of readers. Even today, his words on love and life bring new insight to these familiar topics. Thus, William Anderson, showcasing all aspects of Horace's artistry, encourages us rather to ask, "Why not Horace?"