Original scientific paper
Hektorović’s Measure: A Contribution to a Reading of a Well-Rounded Oeuvre
Maroević Tonko
; HAZU, Zagreb
Abstract
In this paper I have concerned myself with the poet’s concept of measure, a kind of point of reference and even more so a determined ethical corrective. Hektorović, that is, says he writes verses »according to measure«, in other words, following a strict rhythm and a set range of syllables (a metre, that is); but still more he lays stress on the measure that has to be kept in one’s conduct and proceedings, abiding both by Stoic principles and rigidly Christian principles. Well versed in classical wisdom (particularly in Pythagoreanism) and in medieval moralism, he exemplifies his views by the actions of his travelling companions in his piscatorial and poeticising voyage, and in his epistles to friends also particularly advocates moderation and temperance. With a number of direct quotations from the poem Fishing and Fishermen’s Conversation as well as other writings of this author, I have endeavoured to suggest that his real absorption in quantities and numbers is Hektorović’s method of verifying the reality of the description, particularly his concern for a competent and appropriate understanding of the cosmic order, the divinely appointed measure.
Keywords
Petar Hektorović; measure; number; Pythagoras; Paskoj; Nikola
Hrčak ID:
219695
URI
Publication date:
22.4.2019.
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