Tragic Modernities

“Incisive… Amply demonstrate[s] how studying the reception of the classics, and our engagement with the past, can provide guidance for the present.”—Daisy Dunn, The Times Literary Supplement

“This is an ambitious and well-researched book, which has important things to say about both tragedy and modernity.”—Barbara Graziosi, Times Higher Education

“[An] excellent book. In Tragic Modernities, [Leonard] convincingly argues that Greek tragedy has, and must continue to have, an essential role in contemporary culture. The book is a work of love and a dedicated, thorough reading of tragedy—a rare accomplishment. Leonard manages to connect all the major views (some of them seemingly incompatible) in the history of modernity, and she shows the depth of tragedy’s influence on world view. She points out the crucial role of tragedy in drawing attention to the relationship between individuals and collectives… An important book on philosophy and tragedy.”—S. Correa, Choice

“Leonard’s brilliant examination opens up the discussion of ‘the tragic’ in exciting ways. Her eloquent, sure-footed readings render difficult philosophical and literary texts newly accessible.”—Page duBois, University of California, San Diego

“A highly engaging and penetrating study of the most significant and influential philosophical approaches to ancient Greek tragedy that have emerged over the past two centuries. Leonard’s profound familiarity with the Classical texts and with the modern history of ideas is exemplary.”—John Hamilton, Harvard University