Nature and Evil in Virgil’s ‘Eclogues’

Far from an homage to idyllic landscapes, the pastoral poem reminds readers that peace isn’t a given, but an ideal to establish and maintain.
Nature and Evil in Virgil’s ‘Eclogues’
“The Course of Empire: Destruction,” 1836, Thomas Cole. New-York Historical Society. Public Domain
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The Roman Publius Virgilius Maro, better known as Virgil, is undoubtedly one of the West’s greatest poets. Not only did he invent Rome’s mythic founder Aeneas and the celebrated Trojan horse, his creativity also inspired countless literary masterpieces throughout history. 
Less known among Virgil’s works is the “Eclogues,” sometimes called “Bucolics.” The collection of 10 poems is often hailed as an elegant praise of nature’s soothing beauty. Yet amid its delightful scenes lie disturbing details that offer prescient lessons about peace and its conditions.
Leo Salvatore
Leo Salvatore
Author
Leo Salvatore is an arts and culture writer with a master's degree in classics and philosophy from the University of Chicago and a master's degree in humanities from Ralston College. He aims to inform, delight, and inspire through well-researched essays on history, literature, and philosophy. Contact Leo at [email protected]