Alcaeus

A contemporary of Sappho, Alcaeus of Mytilene was a sixth century BC lyric poet from the island of Lesbos, who is credited for inventing the Alcaic stanza, which would become a favorite model for Horace. The works of Sappho and Alcaeus represent for many the high point of brilliance for the development of early Greek lyrical poetry. Some ancient critics held Alcaeus even higher than Pindar in their estimation of his poetical abilities. His works consist of hymns in honour of gods and heroes, love poetry, drinking songs and political poems, reflecting the turbulent political life of his native Mytilene. Delphi’s Ancient Classics series provides eReaders with the wisdom of the Classical world, with both English translations and the original Greek texts. This eBook presents Alcaeus’ collected fragments, with illustrations, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1)