Libros de Literatura, Clásicos grecolatinos, página 6 de 27

Los sonámbulos, Libro I: Pasenow o el romanticismo (1931) abre la célebre trilogía de Hermann Broch, en la que se analiza la crisis de valores de la Europa de comienzos del siglo XX a través de tres epocas y personajes distintos. En esta primera parte, situada en 1888, el protagonista es Joachim von Pasenow, un joven oficial prusiano atrapado entre las rigidas normas del deber militar, la tradicion aristocratica y sus vacilaciones sentimentales.Pasenow encarna el espiritu del romanticismo tardio, marcado por ideales de honor, orden y jerarquia, pero ya en conflicto con un mundo en transformacion. Su relacion amorosa con Ruzena, una joven bohemia y sensual, lo enfrenta a una tension entre el deseo personal y las convenciones sociales, asi como entre la seguridad de lo conocido y el vertigo de la modernidad que comienza a abrirse paso.Broch retrata en Pasenow a un "sonambulo", es decir, alguien que vive sin plena conciencia, aferrado a valores caducos, incapaz de comprender del todo el cambio de epoca. La novela, con un estilo elegante y analitico, muestra como las estructuras tradicionales se tambalean y anticipa la desorientacion espiritual que dominara las decadas siguientes en Europa.Hermann Broch (18861951), escritor y pensador austriaco, es considerado una de las voces mas profundas de la literatura modernista europea. Su trilogia Los sonambulos combina narrativa psicologica, reflexion filosofica y critica cultural, mostrando el colapso de los sistemas de valores que habian sostenido a la sociedad burguesa.

Los sonámbulos, Libro II: Esch o la anarquía (1931) se sitúa en 1903 y continúa la trilogía iniciada por Hermann Broch para examinar la desintegración de los valores en la Europa moderna. El protagonista, August Esch, es un empleado de contabilidad que se siente frustrado, desplazado y lleno de resentimiento hacia la sociedad. Incapaz de encontrar un proposito claro en su vida, se mueve entre la rigidez moral y el deseo de ruptura, oscilando en un estado de permanente insatisfaccion.La figura de Esch refleja el paso del romanticismo al desencanto, encarnando la perdida de certezas en un mundo donde los ideales tradicionales se derrumban y la vida burguesa aparece vacia. Su caracter rigido, pero al mismo tiempo caotico, lo lleva a buscar nuevas formas de identidad en movimientos politicos y sociales que prometen un cambio, aunque sin llegar nunca a una verdadera conviccion. En el se hace evidente el avance de la anarquia espiritual, un sintoma del desmoronamiento de valores colectivos.La novela expone con crudeza la crisis de sentido de la clase media, mostrando como Esch, atrapado en contradicciones, representa a una generacion que busca desesperadamente un nuevo orden en medio de la desorientacion. Como en toda la trilogia, Broch combina la narracion psicologica con una profunda reflexion filosofica, proyectando en su personaje la angustia de una epoca marcada por la transicion hacia la modernidad.Hermann Broch (18861951) fue un novelista y pensador austriaco cuya obra se centra en el analisis de la decadencia cultural y moral de Europa. En Los sonambulos, Broch retrata tres momentos historicos romanticismo, anarquia y realismo para mostrar la progresiva desintegracion de los valores que sostenian a la sociedad burguesa. Su estilo mezcla narrativa, ensayo y filosofia, consolidandolo como una de las figuras mas originales de la literatura modernista.

Quo Vadis: Una narración de los tiempos de Nerón de Henryk Sienkiewicz es una novela histórica que retrata vívidamente el choque entre la decadencia de la Roma imperial y el naciente espíritu del cristianismo primitivo. Ambientada durante el reinado del emperador Neron, la historia sigue al patricio romano Marco Vinicio mientras se enamora de la cristiana Ligia. Su viaje personal, marcado por un despertar moral y una transformacion interior, se desarrolla en un contexto de crueldad politica, persecucion y el inminente colapso de un imperio corrupto.Desde su publicacion, Quo Vadis ha sido celebrada por su narrativa poderosa y su riqueza historica. Sienkiewicz logra combinar con maestria romance, tragedia y reflexion espiritual, utilizando el contraste entre los excesos romanos y la humildad cristiana para explorar temas universales como la fe, el sacrificio y la redencion. La caracterizacion vivida especialmente del despotismo de Neron y la resistencia de los primeros cristianos ha asegurado su lugar como un clasico de la literatura universal.El significado perdurable de la novela radica en su representacion de la resistencia espiritual frente a la decadencia moral. Quo Vadis sigue siendo una poderosa meditacion sobre el amor, la transformacion y el coraje de defender las propias creencias en un mundo gobernado por el miedo y la corrupcion.

La Ley, escrita por Frédéric Bastiat en 1850, es una obra clave del pensamiento liberal clásico que analiza el papel legítimo del Estado y los peligros de la legislación injusta. En este breve pero contundente tratado, Bastiat sostiene que la ley debe proteger la vida, la libertad y la propiedad, y denuncia con firmeza cualquier uso del poder legislativo que sirva para despojar a unos en beneficio de otros. Esta practica, que el llama "expoliacion legal", es vista como una perversion del verdadero proposito de la ley.Desde su publicacion, La Ley ha sido reconocida por su claridad argumentativa y su defensa apasionada de la libertad individual y de un gobierno limitado. Bastiat alerta contra el intervencionismo estatal excesivo, el socialismo coercitivo y la tendencia de los gobiernos a expandir sus funciones mas alla de lo necesario, lo que, segun el, corrompe tanto al Estado como a la sociedade civil.La vigencia de La Ley permanece intacta por su capacidad de inspirar debates sobre justicia, libertad y el equilibrio entre Estado y ciudadania. Su mensaje, centrado en la moralidad del derecho y en la defensa de los derechos naturales, sigue siendo una referencia esencial en el campo de la filosofia politica y economica.

La vida de Lazarillo de Tormes, escrito por un autor anónimo, es una crítica mordaz a la sociedad española del siglo XVI, centrada en las desigualdades y las hipocresías de la época. A través de las experiencias del joven Lazaro, un picaro que sobrevive al servicio de varios amos, la obra examina las tensiones entre las clases sociales y la corrupcion de las instituciones, especialmente la Iglesia y la nobleza.El estilo narrativo en primera persona, donde Lazaro cuenta su propia historia, permite al lector empatizar con su astucia y capacidad de adaptacion en un mundo lleno de adversidades. El tono ironico y humoristico de la novela resalta la lucha del protagonista para encontrar su lugar en una sociedad que lo margina. Con cada amo que sirve, Lazaro se enfrenta a diferentes facetas de la avaricia, el egoismo y la hipocresia humana.Desde su publicacion en 1554, Lazarillo de Tormes ha sido ampliamente elogiada por su innovadora estructura y su representacion realista de la vida cotidiana de los mas desfavorecidos. Su enfoque en los temas de supervivencia y critica social ha inspirado un vasto legado literario, siendo la obra precursora del genero picaresco. A dia de hoy, sigue siendo estudiada por su penetrante observacion de los defectos humanos y su aguda critica al orden social de su tiempo.

De entre todos los pensadores liberales, el diputado, periodista y economista francés Frédéric Bastiat (1801-1850) es uno de los más antiguos y sin duda uno de los más brillantes. Bastiat escribió "La Ley" como contrapunto a los excesos socialistas en los que Francia estaba cayendo en esa epoca. Al igual que mucha gente en pleno siglo XXI, los franceses de su epoca aun creian que el gobierno debia ser responsable de todo lo relacionado con sus ciudadanos, incluso la restriccion a la libertad basada en la fuerza de la ley. Los argumentos de Bastiat contra esta ingenua idea son tan relevantes hoy como lo fueron para Francia en su tiempo. El libro electronico "La Ley" es un grito de libertad que todo democrata deberia leer.

Plutarco (46-119) fue un filósofo y biógrafo griego nacido en la ciudad de Queronea. Estudió matemáticas y filosofía en la Academia de Atenas, la misma que fue estudiada por Platón, y se dedicó a la politica, alcanzando altos cargos publicos. "Alejandro y Julio Cesar" es uno de los volumenes de "Vidas Paralelas" y presenta lado a lado a dos grandes nombres de la epoca helenistica: Alejandro, el Rey de Macedonia, unificador del occidente y conquistador de Asia, y Julio Cesar, habil estratega militar y politico. La obra, escrita en el siglo I, ofrece una comparacion detallada de sus origenes, carreras y decisiones que influyeron en la historia. Alejandro y Julio Cesar vidas paralelas no solo proporciona un relato historico, sino tambien reflexiones sobre virtud, liderazgo y ambicion, brindando a los lectores una vision unica de dos lideres influyentes de la antiguedad.

Escrito por el eminente historiador romano Caio Suetonio Tranquilo en el año 121, "Vidas de los Doce Césares" es un documento histórico de gran importancia y una de las principales fuentes de conocimiento sobre la historia romana. En esta magnifica obra, que abarca desde el ascenso hasta la caida del Imperio Romano, se nos revela la intimidad de la vida de cada uno de los doce cesares: sus antecedentes familiares, sus campañas militares, los acontecimientos que los llevaron al poder y a su fin, asi como su caracter y personalidad individuales. Mas alla de los hechos historicos, Suetonio logra retratar la humanidad de estos doce cesares en un contexto de poder ilimitado, violencia, y la lujuria y depravacion de los emperadores en la antigua Roma. Esta es una obra excepcional que merece ser leida para comprender no solo la historia, sino tambien la psicologia y la complejidad de estos gobernantes romanos.

Quo Vadis: A Narrative of the Time of Nero by Henryk Sienkiewicz is a historical novel that vividly portrays the clash between the decadence of Imperial Rome and the rising spirit of early Christianity. Set during the reign of Emperor Nero, the story follows the Roman patrician Marcus Vinicius as he falls in love with the Christian woman Lygia. His personal journey, marked by moral awakening and inner transformation, unfolds against a backdrop of political cruelty, persecution, and the looming collapse of a corrupt empire.Since its publication, Quo Vadis has been celebrated for its compelling narrative and historical detail. Sienkiewicz masterfully blends romance, tragedy, and spiritual reflection, using the contrast between Roman excess and Christian humility to explore enduring themes such as faith, sacrifice, and redemption. The novels vivid characterizations especially of Neros tyranny and the resilience of the early Christians have cemented its place as a classic of world literature.The novels lasting significance lies in its depiction of spiritual resistance in the face of moral decay. Quo Vadis remains a powerful meditation on love, transformation, and the courage to stand for ones beliefs amidst a world ruled by fear and corruption.

The Law, written by Frédéric Bastiat in 1850, is a foundational text in classical liberal and libertarian thought. In this concise yet powerful treatise, Bastiat argues that the proper purpose of law is to protect individual rightsspecifically life, liberty, and property. He warns against the perversion of law into a tool for "legal plunder," where the state violates these rights by redistributing wealth and enforcing social agendas under the guise of justice.With clarity and forceful logic, Bastiat defends limited government, voluntary exchange, and the moral foundation of a free society. He critiques socialism and interventionist policies, asserting that when the law goes beyond its legitimate function, it fosters injustice rather than curbing it.Since its publication, The Law has influenced generations of thinkers and remains a key work in discussions about personal freedom, economic liberty, and the role of the state. Bastiats unwavering commitment to individual rights and his accessible writing style have helped the text endure as a powerful argument for freedom rooted in natural law.Its lasting relevance lies in its timeless message: that the law must never become a weapon of oppression, but a safeguard of liberty. In a world still grappling with the balance between authority and freedom, The Law remains as urgent and compelling as ever.

Meditationsis a timeless reflection on personal ethics, resilience, and the nature of human existence. Written by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius as a private journal, the work delves into Stoic philosophy, emphasizing self-discipline, acceptance of fate, and the importance of virtue in navigating lifes challenges. Through its meditative and introspective tone, Meditations explores themes of impermanence, duty, and the pursuit of wisdom, offering guidance on maintaining inner peace amidst external turmoil.Since its compilation, Meditations has been revered for its profound insights into human nature and its practical wisdom. Its reflections on self-mastery, emotional control, and the transient nature of power and success have influenced generations of thinkers, solidifying its status as a foundational text in Stoic philosophy. The works universal themes and direct, unembellished style continue to resonate with readers seeking clarity and purpose in an unpredictable world.The enduring significance of Meditations lies in its ability to provide a philosophical framework for confronting adversity and cultivating inner strength. By urging individuals to align their actions with reason and virtue, Marcus Aurelius reflections remain a powerful testament to the pursuit of integrity and the timeless struggle for meaning in human life.

O Livro de Enoque é um texto apocalíptico e pseudepígrafo atribuído ao patriarca Enoque, explorando visões celestiais, julgamentos divinos e a relação entre os anjos e a humanidade. A obra apresenta

"The History of Rome" had a profound impact on the field of classical studies and historiography. It provided a comprehensive narrative that influenced generations of historians and students of ancient history. Mommsens work helped to popularize the study of Roman history and contributed significantly to the understanding of the complexities of Roman politics, culture, and society.His portrayal of Romes history, particularly the period of the Republics decline, is often seen as a reflection on the challenges faced by modern states, making his analysis relevant even beyond the study of ancient history. Mommsens insights into the nature of political power, the role of charismatic leaders, and the dynamics of social conflict continue to resonate with contemporary readers.

The Letters of Pliny the Younger, also known as the Epistles of Pliny the Younger, have been studied for centuries, as they offer a unique and intimate glimpse into the daily life of Romans in the 1st century AD. Through his letters, the Roman writer and lawyer Pliny the Younger (whose full name was Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus) discusses philosophical and moral issues; but he also talks about everyday matters and topics related to his administrative duties. One of these letters, Letter 16 from Book VI, addressed to Tacitus, holds unparalleled historical value. In it, Pliny describes the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which destroyed the city of Pompeii. Many scholars claim that with his letters, Pliny invented a new literary genre: the letter written not only to establish pleasant communication with peers but also to publish it later. Pliny compiled copies of every letter he wrote throughout his life and published those he considered the best in twelve books. This edition presents selected letters chosen for their various characteristics and covering several books, focusing mainly on Books I, II, and III. The work is part of the famous collection: 501 Books You Must Read.

Plutarch (46 - 119 AD) was a Greek philosopher and biographer born in the city of Chaeronea. He wrote over 200 books, most of which have survived to this day, but his most notable work is "Parallel Lives," a collection of 48 biographies of Greek and Roman figures, including legendary characters.This specific volume of "Parallel Lives" places side by side two great figures of the Hellenic period: Alexander the Great - King of Macedonia, unifier of the West, and conqueror of Asia, and Julius Caesar - skillful military and political strategist. Plutarchs brilliantly achieved goal is to compare the profiles of these leaders, showing their values, common points, and differences.Plutarch is considered one of the greatest Greek philosophers, and his works are of paramount importance for a better understanding of classical culture, politics, and philosophy.

Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus was one of the Caesars and ruled Rome between the years 54 to 68 AD. Like his predecessors, he wielded power with violence and a good dose of insanity. Besides seeing himself as a deity, Nero considered himself a brilliant artist and dedicated much of his energy as a musician and actor to prove this.However, Nero went down in history as a murderer, madman, and debauchee, with no limits to obtaining what he desired, which in terms of power could mean the murder of his own mother and half-brother as well as the unrestricted possession of absolutely anyone, woman or man, who crossed his path and aroused his desire.This work portrays the power struggle behind the scenes of the Roman Empire, where poisoning was one of the main strategies, as well as Neros trajectory, from his rise to power through the cruelty and obstinacy of his mother Agrippina to the tragic outcome when he commits suicide to avoid the wrath of his people. An unforgettable read.

Hermann Broch, born on November 1, 1886, in Vienna, Austria, and died on May 30, 1951, in New Haven, Connecticut, was an Austrian writer, one of the greatest modernist writers of all time. Nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature, Hermann Broch is a novelist of the stature of Joyce and Proust. The Death of Virgil is considered by many as his masterpiece. The novel recreates the last day of the poet Virgils life, hours during which he considers destroying the Aeneid and reflects on his life dedicated to art. The Death of Virgil is part of the famous collection: 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die.

Written by the great Roman historian Suetonius in the year 121, "The Twelve Caesars" is an extremely important historical document and one of the main sources of knowledge about Roman history. In this magnificent work, which covers the period from the rise to the fall of the Roman Empire, we get to know the intimacy of the life of each of the twelve Caesars: their ancestors, their military campaigns, the events that led them to power and death, as well as the character and personality of each of them. Beyond historical facts, Suetonius managed to portray the human character of the 12 Caesars in an environment characterized by unlimited power, violence, and the debauchery and luxury of the emperors in ancient Rome. It is an exceptional work that deserves to be read.

The Book of Enoch is an ancient apocalyptic text that explores themes of divine judgment, cosmic order, and the relationship between humanity and the celestial realm. Attributed to the biblical patriarch Enoch, the work presents a visionary narrative detailing the fall of the Watchers angels who descended to Earth and corrupted humankind alongside prophecies of redemption and eschatological transformation. The text reflects a deep engagement with moral responsibility, the nature of divine justice, and the unseen forces that shape the world.Since its rediscovery, the Book of Enoch has been influential in various religious and literary traditions, particularly within early Christianity and Jewish mysticism. Its vivid depictions of heavenly realms, apocalyptic revelations, and ethical teachings have contributed to its enduring significance. Though excluded from the canonical biblical texts, its themes of righteousness, judgment, and cosmic struggle continue to resonate with scholars and spiritual seekers alike.The works lasting relevance lies in its ability to illuminate the tensions between divine authority and human agency, as well as the broader spiritual and ethical concerns that transcend historical and cultural boundaries. By exploring the limits of knowledge and the consequences of moral transgression, the Book of Enoch invites reflection on the nature of justice, destiny, and the unseen dimensions of existence.

Uma obra-prima da literatura clássica, O mercador de Veneza chega à Coleção Cícero com prefácio do advogado, escritor e membro da Academia Brasileira de Letras Jurídicas José Roberto de Castro Neve