Alexander Pope: Literary Translator and Editor, from Binfield to Twickenham

Abstract

This paper will discuss the translations of poetry and some of the editions that Alexander Pope produced. For this, we will consider his monumental task over the translations of the work of Homer, analysing the unprecedented economic and literary implications. In addition, we shall examine Pope’s imitations of Horace in order to highlight their content and underlying intentions, going on to present lastly his other work as an editor. This context will allow us to draw some conclusions from Pope’s own uniqueness in the English literary and creative scene during the 18th century. Pope showed himself to be independent from the prevailing circles, being outside the radius of action of patrons and the court.