Callimachus Quotes

A collection of quotes by Callimachus.

Callimachus was a renowned Greek poet and scholar who was born in Cyrene, Libya, around 310 BCE. He is considered one of the most influential poets of the Hellenistic period. Callimachus spent most of his life in Alexandria, Egypt, where he became the chief librarian of the famous Library of Alexandria.

Known for his wit and erudition, Callimachus was a master of various poetic genres, including epigrams, hymns, and elegies. He played a significant role in the development of innovative literary techniques, such as creating short, refined poems rich in intricate wordplay and allusions. This style, characterized by its attention to detail and precision, became known as "Callimachean" or "Alexandrian."

As a scholar, Callimachus had a profound impact on the fields of literary criticism and cataloging. He was an advocate for literary brevity and criticized the epic tradition in favor of shorter, more refined forms. Callimachus's most famous work is his collection of elegies known as the "Aetia" (Causes), which explored the mythical origins of customs and traditions.

Although numerous works by Callimachus have been lost over time, his influence on subsequent generations of poets and scholars cannot be understated. His innovative approach to poetry, emphasis on intellectual sophistication, and dedication to meticulous craftsmanship left a lasting imprint on the literary traditions of ancient Greece and beyond.