Love and Religious Lyric in 16th-Century Spanish Poetry
The Love Lyric: Garcilaso de la Vega
In the first half of the 16th century, a new fundamental theme in poetry was love, inspired by the love poems of Italy (metric). The most important poet of this period was Garcilaso de la Vega.
Life and Work
This poet from Toledo was skilled in expressing feelings of both joy and sadness. He spent several periods in Italy and came into contact with the Renaissance culture of that country. He introduced into Spanish poetry the different types of metrics that were
Read MoreLatin Lyric Poetry: Catullus, Horace, and Martial
Latin Lyric Poetry
The name lyric derives from the Greek word lyros, which was a stringed musical instrument that accompanied the poets. This genre groups all poetic compositions that express emotions and feelings. In fact, the genre came under melodies and dances. As it was getting rid of them, it became more complex and intense. Thus, the musical vacuum is compensated by perfection in the use of words. Still, it can be seen in the names of the poetic compositions reminiscent of music: ballad, from
Read MoreJulius Caesar and Cicero: Roman History and Oratory
Julius Caesar: Roman Statesman and General
Julius Caesar was born into the Julia family, considered descendants of the Trojan hero Iulus. He began his political career at an early age and held several magistracies. He was elected consul in 59 BC. He participated in the First Triumvirate of the Roman Republic, together with Crassus and Pompey, and ended up facing the latter in a civil war. Once Pompey was defeated, Caesar made himself dictator in 45 BC. In 44 BC, he was assassinated on the same day
Read MoreMastering Catalan Literature: Authors and Masterpieces
Bernat Metge: A Literary Pioneer of the 14th Century
Bernat Metge was born in Barcelona in 1343 into a family linked to the court. He was educated in writing and official languages (Latin, Catalan, and Aragonese). His stay at the papal court of Avignon, a cultural hub in Europe at the time, allowed him to delve into new authors and readings, most notably Petrarch. Metge served as the last secretary to the Catalan dynasty kings, Joan I and Martin I. He was involved in corruption scandals, especially
Read MoreAncient Rome: History, Society, and Legacy
**Location**
The heart of Ancient Rome was located in the center of the Mediterranean, specifically on the Italian peninsula. The Apennine mountain chain forms the backbone of this peninsula, dividing it into western and eastern sides, nestled between the Tiber and Po rivers.
**Origin**
Rome’s origins can be traced to an influx of people seeking better living conditions. Three main groups populated the area during Rome’s formative years: the Italians in the north, the Etruscans in the center, and the
Read MoreAugustus of Prima Porta: Roman Emperor Sculpture
Augustus of Prima Porta: A Masterpiece of Roman Sculpture
Augustus of Prima Porta is a sculpture of the Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus Caesar, created by an unknown author. Caesar Octavian Augustus was appointed Emperor of Rome in 27 BC after defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium and subsequently conquering Egypt. He was the nephew of Julius Caesar, who had adopted him as a child. Augustus was a very important general and held many titles that represented his power. During
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