A maxim by Libanius, on the love of learning and literature

Posted on by Roger Pearse

I think that I would have followed Odysseus’ example and spurned even marriage with a goddess for a glimpse of the smoke of Athens. — Libanius 1

1. Oration 1, 12. Given in Selected letters of Libanius: from the age of Constantius and Julian, tr. Scott Bradbury, Liverpool, 2004, p.49, n.58.

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2 thoughts on “A maxim by Libanius, on the love of learning and literature”

  1. Just had a look at the letters of Libanius,

    I found the next note down interesting.

    Maybe the sentiments expressed here have more to do with

    learning about life than, the love of learning and literature

    …p49, n59,says

    The proverb maintained that ” hybris dispels eros”,

    That is arrogance dispels desire….

  2. is that the same Odysseus who was married to the beautiful, faithful and intelligent Penelope.If so,he spurned marriage with a goddess but not a mere mortal.

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