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Paul Veyne's Translation of Virgil's Aeneid Published by Albin Michel / Les Belles Lettres

publication · 2026-04-23

Paul Veyne's translation of Virgil's "Aeneid" has been published by Albin Michel / Les Belles Lettres. The translation is hailed as a masterpiece, offering a fresh rendition of the epic poem. The review, written by Michel Vignard in artpress, emphasizes the human qualities of the hero Aeneas, describing him as an anti-hero burdened by a heavy destiny yet fulfilling it conscientiously. Vignard compares the work to Mozart for its musicality and to Hollywood for its imagery and dialogues. The translation includes a brief introduction by Veyne, noted for its erudition and sharp humor. The review highlights key episodes: the fall of Troy from a Trojan perspective, Aeneas's visit to the underworld foreshadowing Dante, and the war instigated by Juno with the help of the Fury Allecto. The sixth book ends with a panoramic view of Turnus's armies in battle formation.

Key facts

  • Paul Veyne's translation of Virgil's 'Aeneid' is published by Albin Michel / Les Belles Lettres.
  • The translation is described as a masterpiece.
  • The review is written by Michel Vignard in artpress.
  • Aeneas is portrayed as an anti-hero with a mission.
  • The translation includes a brief introduction by Paul Veyne.
  • Veyne's notes are praised for erudition and humor.
  • The epic is compared to Mozart for music and Hollywood for imagery.
  • Key episodes include the fall of Troy, Aeneas in the underworld, and Juno's war.

Entities

Artists

  • Virgil
  • Paul Veyne
  • Michel Vignard

Institutions

  • Albin Michel
  • Les Belles Lettres
  • artpress

Sources