European Erotic Romance: Philhellene Protestantism, Renaissance Translation and English Literary Politics

Description

European Erotic Romance examines the Renaissance publication and translation of the ancient Greek erotic romances, and English adaptations of the genre by Sir Philip Sidney, Shakespeare and Lady Mary Sidney Wroth. Providing fresh insight into the development of the novel, this study identifies the politicisation of erotic romance by the European philhellene (lovers of all things Greek) Protestant movement. To English translators and authors, the complex plots, well developed moralised characters (particularly female) and rhetorical styles of the ancient novels signify political and social reform. Generous quotation and translations ensure that European Erotic Romance is accessible to a broad spectrum of readers. Its organisation lends itself to use as a course text. It is suitable for use by senior undergraduates and specialists in Renaissance literature, translation, rhetoric and history. -- .

Dr Victor Skretkowicz is an Honorary Reader of Literature at the University of Dundee

The attention paid to the initial reception of Greek romance across Renaissance Europe is unparalleled. This wide-ranging and engaging study will prove especially useful for those interested in the transmission and translation of Greco-Roman texts. -- .