Sappho Introduction

SAPPHO
The Greek Poems
1. Intoduction
2. Forward
3. Background
4. Sappho and Censorship

Introduction

The pages to follow have been adapted for this course from a series of lectures given by Professor William Harris of Middlebury College. His tireless study of ancient lyric poetry and abundant publication on the subject has served as the foundation of my own understanding of one of the most recklessly mistreated areas of human expression ever.

Your job here, much like the subject of your future labors, is seductively draped in the gauzy veil of simplicity. All you have to do is read Sappho and read about Sappho. Inescapably, as with anyone who attracts our attention, it is what is implied by the contours beneath the garment that bids us to peer beneath. In order to do this, however, we must equip ourselves with a recognition of what, precisely, impedes our direct view of Sappho’s body or work. Over the next couple of days I will attempt, while nursing a failing larynx, to guide you toward this recognition with Professor Harris’ assistance. Thank you for your patience. If you have any questions, please, jot them down in the margins provided when they occur to you and add them to our blog as comments about this post so that others might benfit from your lines of inquiry.