Divine Purpose and Heroic Response in Homer and Virgil

Taking a critical perspective more political than that usually adopted by classicists, John Alvis demonstrates in this study that the Iliad, Odyssey and Aeneid each present a distinct political teaching regarding human ends and the form of civil society most conducive to the realization of those ends. Referring to the mysterious "plan of Zeus" announced in the opening lines of the Iliad but never explained, Alvis argues that both Homer's Zeus and Virgil's Jupiter guide their heroes to embody principles of natural justice that in turn found political constitutions. The Political Plan of Zeus represents the first comprehensive theory of the meaning of Zeus's providence in both Homeric poems, a new interpretation of the muse in Homer, and the first attempt to compare the Aeneid with Platonic-Aristotelian teaching on the nature of man and the problem of empire. This book will be of interest to upper-level undergraduates and scholars of politics, philosophy, and the classics.

Literature & Fiction

Alvis, John

History & Criticism

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

Taking a critical perspective more political than that usually adopted by classicists, John Alvis demonstrates in this study that the Iliad, Odyssey and Aeneid each present a distinct political teaching regarding human ends and the form of civil society most conducive to the realization of those ends. Referring to the mysterious 'plan of Zeus' announced in the opening lines of the Iliad but never explained, Alvis argues that both Homer's Zeus and Virgil's Jupiter guide their heroes to embody principles of natural justice that in turn found political constitutions. The Political Plan of Zeus represents the first comprehensive theory of the meaning of Zeus's providence in both Homeric poems, a new interpretation of the muse in Homer, and the first attempt to compare the Aeneid with Platonic-Aristotelian teaching on the nature of man and the problem of empire. This book will be of interest to upper-level undergraduates and scholars of politics, philosophy, and the classics.

The essays contained in this book proceed from the common conviction that Shakespeare s poetry conveys a wisdom about politics commensurate with his artistry. Well-known thinkers discuss Shakespeare's understanding of politics, the idea of the best polity, the relationship between character and political life, and the interpenetration of poetry, politics, religion, and philosophy.

Shakespeare As Political Thinker

West, Thomas G.

British & Irish

Carolina Academic Pr

1990 edition. Cover image is different from the one shown. Book shows no wear and could pass for like new condition.

Shakespeare's Understanding of Honor (Studies in Statesmanship)

Dramas & Plays

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Books by Alvis, John

See the best price to sell, buy, or rent books by Alvis, John. BookScouter helps to compare book prices from 25+ online bookstores and 30+ buyback vendors with a single search.

Divine Purpose and Heroic Response in Homer and Virgil

Divine Purpose and Heroic Response in Homer and Virgil

Shakespeare As Political Thinker

Shakespeare's Understanding of Honor (Studies in Statesmanship)