Dante and Beatrice by Henry Holiday, 1882–1884
The Italians have a phrase, “traduttore, traditore,” which means the “translator” of a book can be a “traitor” to it if they fail to capture both its letter and its spirit. Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, takes a deep dive into his forthcoming translation of the Vita Nuova or “New Life,” Dante’s first book. It is a moving account of his youthful love for his muse, Beatrice, and discovery of his passion for poetry. The Vita Nuova ostensibly organizes Dante’s early poems around the story of how he met Beatrice Portinari and fell under her spell, but, as Dante would put it, the reader should look beneath the literal surface for allegorical, moral, and celestial undercurrents. Luzzi shares his experiences of trying to remain faithful to Dante’s original language while bringing his own understanding and interpretation of Dante’s work into this early masterpiece by Italy’s sommo poeta, or “supreme poet.”
10–11 a.m. Introduction to Vita Nuova
Luzzi introduces the Vita Nuova, focusing on Dante’s life and love for Beatrice.
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Vita Nuova, chapters 1–10
Dante’s first encounters with Beatrice and discovery of his poetic calling are described.
12:15–12:45 p.m. Break
12:45–1:45 p.m. Vita Nuova, chapters 11-29
Beatrice’s unexpected death and its cataclysmic effect on Dante are discussed.
2–3 p.m. Vita Nuova, chapters 30-42
Luzzi explores how Dante overcame his grief for Beatrice to discover a new way of writing poetry and reaching readers.
Additional Program Opportunity featuring Works by Dante
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