“Longinus On the Sublime” is an ancient treatise on aesthetics and literary criticism, notable for its enduring influence on the understanding and evaluation of great literature. Though the exact authorship of the text is uncertain, it is traditionally attributed to Longinus, a figure who remains somewhat enigmatic in the annals of literary history.
Overview and Context:
- Written between the first and third centuries AD, “On the Sublime” provides profound insights into what makes literary works not just good, but truly great. It is a guide for writers on achieving a noble and impressive style, emphasizing the essence of high-quality writing.
- Longinus On The Sublime underscores that the sublime in writing is a blend of innate genius and learned skill, along with the necessity of moral excellence in a great writer. This combination of talent, skill, and ethical underpinning forms the backbone of Longinus’ concept of the sublime.
Key Principles and Literary Philosophy:
- “Longinus On The Sublime” is structured as a letter to Postumius Terentianus, addressing the principles of great writing. Longinus advocates that the fundamental quality of great writing is its ability to emotionally move the reader, to lift them out of their ordinary experience.
- Longinus emphasizes the importance of sincerity in emotion and passion in writing. He believes that these qualities, when genuinely expressed, can incite similar emotions in readers. He also highlights the role of literary rules, which provide structure and aesthetic beauty, but notes that a true genius may break these rules for a higher artistic purpose.
- The text places significant emphasis on moral high-mindedness in writing, suggesting that this quality can influence readers toward moral goodness. Longinus also points out the necessity of freedom in society for the flourishing of literary greatness.
Historical Influence and Legacy:
- “Longinus On The Sublime” gained significant attention during the Renaissance and later during the Romantic era, inspiring subsequent works and literary criticism. It continued to shape ideas about aesthetics and writing, proving its timeless relevance in Western culture.
Reflection and Interpretation: A modern reflection on “On the Sublime” would likely explore its enduring relevance in contemporary literary criticism. It could examine how Longinus’ principles apply to modern literature, especially in the context of emotional depth, moral integrity, and the balance between adhering to and deviating from established literary norms. The treatise’s emphasis on the emotional and moral impact of literature resonates with contemporary discussions about the role of art in society and the individual’s experience.
