This comprehensive reassessment of the carmina maiora of the fourth-century poet Claudian contributes to the growing trend to recognize that Late Antique poets should be approached as just that: poets. Its methodology is developed from that of Michael Roberts' seminal The Jeweled Style. It analyzes Claudian's poetics and use of story telling to argue that the creation of a story world in which Stilicho, his patron, becomes an epic hero, and the barbarians are giants threatening both the borders of Rome and the order of the very universe is designed to convince his audience of a world-view in which it is only the Roman general who stands between them and cosmic chaos. The book also argues that Claudian uses the same techniques to promote the message that Honorius, young hero though he may seem, is not yet fit to rule, and that Stilicho's rightful position remains as his regent.

Analyzes the poetics and story telling techniques of the fourth-century poet Claudian as tools of Late Antique political propaganda.

About the Author
Clare Coombe is Head of Classics at The Oratory School, Reading and retains a research interest in Late Antique and Early Christian Latin poetry.


Book Information
ISBN 9781107058347
Author Clare Coombe
Format Hardback
Page Count 254
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 490g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 158mm * 17mm