Atalanta in Calydon   By: Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837-1909)

Atalanta in Calydon by Algernon Charles Swinburne is a remarkable poetic drama that delves deep into the themes of fate, love, and the human condition. Set in the mythical world of ancient Greece, Swinburne weaves a tragic tale centered around the hunt of the Calydonian boar and the consequences it brings upon the characters.

The play begins with a powerful invocation to the Greek gods, setting a grand and epic tone that persists throughout. Atalanta, the fierce and independent huntress, becomes a central figure whose actions ultimately shape the fate of the characters. Swinburne skillfully explores the conflicts between free will and destiny as he delves into the complex motivations of his characters.

The poet's mastery of language and vivid imagery is evident throughout the play, showcasing his incredible command over poetic verse. Each line is carefully crafted, adding depth and emotion to the already rich narrative. Swinburne's use of alliteration and rhythm further enhance the musicality of the text, drawing readers into the world he has created.

The characters in Atalanta in Calydon are multi-dimensional and flawed, making them incredibly realistic and relatable. Meleager, the passionate and yet tormented hero, struggles with his own desires and the expectations of his society. His mother, Althaea, undertakes a journey of self-discovery that exposes the complexities of parental love and its consequences. Even the minor characters are well-developed and contribute to the overall tapestry of the play.

What sets this poetic drama apart is its exploration of love in all its forms. From the love between a mother and son to the passion between lovers, Swinburne delves into the intensity and unpredictability of human emotions. The relationships depicted are raw, visceral, and often heartbreaking, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

Atalanta in Calydon is not without its challenges, as the intricacy of the verse may require careful attention from the reader. However, the rewards for investment are plentiful. Swinburne's lyrical power and intellectual depth shine through, making it a satisfying and thought-provoking read.

In conclusion, Atalanta in Calydon is a poetic masterpiece that transcends time and continues to captivate readers with its vivid imagery, complex characters, and profound exploration of human nature. Swinburne's talent as a poet is on full display, and his retelling of the ancient Greek myth is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. This work is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty of language and the depth of human experience.

First Page:

oixeo de Boreethen apotropos' alla se Numphai egagon aspasian edupnooi kath' ala, plerousai melitos theothen stoma, me ti Poseidon blapsei, en osin exon sen meligerun opa. toios aoidos ephus: emeis d' eti klaiomen, oi sou deuometh' oixomenou, kai se pothoumen aei. eipe de Pieridon tis anastrephtheisa pros allen: elthen, idou, panton philtatos elthe broton, stemmata drepsamenos neothelea xersi geraiais, kai polion daphnais amphekalupse kara, 10 edu ti Sikelikais epi pektisin, edu ti xordais, aisomenos: pollen gar meteballe luran, pollaki d' en bessaisi kathemenon euren Apollon, anthesi d' estepsen, terpna d' edoke legein, Pana t' aeimneston te Pitun Koruthon te dusedron, en t' ephilese thean thnetos Amadruada: pontou d' en megaroisin ekoimise Kumodameian, ten t' Agamemnonian paid' apedoke patri, pros d' ierous Delphous theoplekton epempsen Oresten, teiromenon stugerais entha kai entha theais... Continue reading book >>