Longinus, On the Sublime. Chapters VIII-XXII.

 Longinus, On the Sublime. Chapters VIII-XXII. Trans H.L. Havell (London & New York, Macmillan & Co., 1890)14-48

Introduction:

Longinus's On the Sublime is a seminal work of literary criticism that explores the essence and effects of sublimity in literature and oratory. Written in the 1st century CE, the treatise examines how elevated thought, intense emotion, and artistic mastery can move audiences profoundly. Chapters VIII-XXII delve into the sources of sublimity, such as greatness of ideas and nobility of diction, while cautioning against faults like turgidity and triviality. Longinus highlights the interplay of natural genius and learned skill in achieving the sublime. His work remains a cornerstone in understanding literary excellence and its timeless impact.

Longinus's On the Sublime (translated by H. L. Havell) offers a profound exploration of what makes literature and oratory "sublime." Chapters VIII-XXII delve into the elements that evoke sublimity in writing and speech. Here’s a detailed explanation:

---

1. The Nature of Sublimity (Chapters VIII-X)

• Longinus emphasizes that sublimity transcends mere technical mastery; it elevates the audience to an extraordinary emotional or intellectual height.
• True sublimity creates a lasting impression and instills awe, going beyond persuasion to inspire admiration.

Key Insight:

• Sublimity is not about ornamentation but the power to move and uplift the soul. For example, Homer’s epics achieve sublimity through their grandeur and emotional depth.

---

2. Sources of Sublimity (Chapters XI-XII)

Longinus identifies five principal sources:

1. Greatness of Thought:

   • Sublime works reflect elevated ideas that resonate universally. A lofty mind is essential for producing profound art.
   • Example: In epic poetry, grand themes such as heroism or divine intervention often evoke sublimity.

2. Intense Emotion:

   • Genuine passion or emotion must infuse the work, as artificiality fails to inspire.
   • Example: In oratory, a speaker’s heartfelt conviction can elevate their speech to sublime levels.

3. Appropriate Use of Figures of Speech:

   • Sublimity arises when rhetorical devices like metaphors or hyperbole amplify the impact of the content without appearing contrived.
   • Example: In literature, Shakespeare’s use of metaphor in Macbeth ("Life’s but a walking shadow") creates an intense emotional resonance.

4. Nobility of Diction:

   • The choice of words, rhythm, and arrangement contributes to sublimity. Elevated language and harmonious structure enhance the grandeur of the message.
   • Example: Milton’s Paradise Lost achieves sublimity through its stately diction.

5. Unity and Harmony:

   • The work’s elements must come together seamlessly to produce a unified effect. Disjointed or overly ornate expressions detract from sublimity.

---

3. The Role of Nature and Genius (Chapters XIII-XIV)

• Longinus highlights that sublimity is often a product of natural genius rather than learned skill. However, education and practice refine innate talent.
• Sublime works reflect the author’s capacity for profound thought and intense feeling, balanced with restraint.

Example: The simplicity yet grandeur of biblical texts like Genesis showcases the natural sublimity that combines faith and universal truths.

---

4. Faults that Undermine Sublimity (Chapters XV-XVII)

Longinus cautions against certain flaws:

1. Turgidity:

   • Overblown or exaggerated language can weaken the effect of sublimity. Writers must avoid inflated diction that lacks depth.
   • Example: Bombastic speeches in drama can seem pretentious rather than sublime.

2. Puerility:

   • This refers to triviality or a focus on insignificant details, which diminishes the grandeur of the work.
   • Example: A poem about heroic deeds that dwells excessively on mundane descriptions loses its sublimity.

3. Affectation:

   • Artificial attempts to seem grand or profound often come across as insincere.
   • Example: Overuse of complex metaphors or obscure references can alienate the audience.

---

5. Sublimity Through Imitation and Emulation (Chapters XVIII-XX)

• Longinus encourages studying great works of the past to achieve sublimity. By imitating their strengths, writers can elevate their craft.
• However, imitation must not become mere replication. True sublimity requires originality and personal insight.

Example:

• Writers like Virgil drew inspiration from Homer but added their unique voice and perspective to achieve sublimity.

---

6. The Power of Silence and Conciseness (Chapters XXI -XXII)

• Longinus notes that silence and brevity can amplify the sublime. Pauses, ellipses, or concise expressions often leave a stronger impact than verbosity.
• Suggestiveness, where the audience’s imagination fills in the gaps, is a powerful tool for achieving sublimity.

Example:

• In drama, moments of silence—such as pauses before delivering a crucial line—can heighten emotional tension and create a sublime effect.

---

Conclusion

Chapters VIII - XXII of On the Sublime provide a roadmap for achieving sublimity in writing and speech. By combining greatness of thought, genuine emotion, skilled use of language, and harmony, writers and orators can produce works that elevate and inspire. At the same time, Longinus warns against excesses and faults that detract from the sublime. His insights remain timeless, influencing literary criticism and aesthetics across centuries.