தமிழ் இணையக் கல்விக்கழகம் - TAMIL VIRTUAL ACADEMY

மொழிகள்

A01145 Aeneid

  • LESSON - 5

    A01145 Aeneid

    This lesson discusses "Aeneid", a renowned epic written by the Roman poet Virgil. Among the Tamil epics of twentieth century, translations of epics from other languages hold a significant place. While analyzing the important features of "Aeneid", this lesson also attempts a comparative study of Tamil and European epics.

    "Aeneid", a long epic in 12 books, narrates the story of the great Roman warrior Aeneas who founded the Roman Empire after the fall of Troy. The plot of "Aeneid" revolves around Aeneas who after the sack of Troy sets out with his people in search of a new home. Goddess Juno, who hates them, contrives to prevent them from reaching Rome. Aeneas faces a lot of trials before he successfully establishes a new Empire on the banks of river Tiber.

    Written around the 20th century B.C, "Aeneid" is regarded as a national epic that blends history and mythology to recount the glory of Rome. The epic is also seen as a tribute to the Roman emperor Augustus who brought an end to the civil wars and internal strife that plagued Rome. But Aeneid is more than just a political poem about Rome. Like all great works of literature it explores universal themes such as man’s relentless search for identity and the primacy of fate.

    Virgil’s "Aeneid" is partly modeled on Homer’s "Iliad" and "Odyssey". However, unlike "Iliad" and "Odyssey", "Aeneid" is noted for its rich and complex style. This is because "Iliad" and "Odyssey" belong to the oral tradition while the “Aeneid" was written for a literate and sophisticated audience. Virgil’s poem is full of beautiful images, subtle allusions and symbolism that give it a rich texture. Virgil also follows the epic tradition in the use of similes.

    "Aeneid" and other European epics differ from Tamil epics in terms of the themes they explore. Though one sees a similarity in style and literary techniques there is a significant difference in plot and characterization. The five great epics in Tamil are neither about heroic battles nor the glory of a great warrior. They were not written with the purpose of recounting a nation’s history. They offer an insight into the ancient Tamil culture, society, spiritualism and politics. It is interesting to note that unlike their European counterparts some Tamil epics have women protagonists.

Tags         :

புதுப்பிக்கபட்ட நாள் : 10-09-2018 13:29:03(இந்திய நேரம்)