Antonio La Penna, a renowned scholar of Latin literature and philologist, passed away at the age of 99 in his home in Florence. The news of his death was announced by the University of Florence, where he had been a professor emeritus from 1956 to 2000. La Penna was awarded the Antonio Feltrinelli Prize for the history and criticism of literature in 1987, and in 2002, he became a national member of the Accademia dei Lincei. Born in Bisaccia, Avellino on January 9, 1925, La Penna was the author of widely-used textbooks on the history of Latin literature and taught Latin literature at the Universities of Pisa and Florence, as well as Latin philology at the Scuola Normale di Pisa. He also wrote numerous international reference essays on Latin authors such as Sallust, Virgil, Horace, Tibullus, Propertius, Ovid, and Phaedrus, and conducted extensive studies on the reception of the ancient world and the history of philology.
Alessandra Petrucci, the Rector of the University of Florence, paid tribute to La Penna by describing him as one of Italy’s most prestigious and refined intellectuals, and one of the most distinguished figures in the international community of ancient world scholars. La Penna was a mentor to generations of students, instilling in them not only knowledge but also a love for culture and a sense of seriousness and dedication towards their work. He was seen as a renowned example of civic engagement by his students. La Penna’s contributions to the field of Latin literature and philology are extensive, and his work has had a significant impact both nationally and internationally. His legacy will continue to inspire scholars and students in the study of ancient literature for years to come.
Throughout his career, La Penna authored over six hundred publications and was known for his scholarly contributions to the study of Latin literature. He was a prolific writer and researcher, with a particular focus on Roman authors such as Cicero, Seneca, and Livy. La Penna’s meticulous research and insightful analyses have enriched the field of classical studies, and his works are considered essential reading for those interested in ancient Roman literature. His writings on the reception of the classical world have shed light on the enduring influence of Roman culture on subsequent generations, highlighting its importance in shaping Western civilization.
La Penna’s impact on the study of Latin literature and philology extends beyond his publications to his teaching and mentorship of students. He was known for his dedication to his students, whom he inspired to pursue their academic interests with rigor and passion. La Penna’s influence on the next generation of scholars is evident in the numerous students he mentored, who went on to make significant contributions to the field of classical studies. His commitment to excellence and his passion for the ancient world continue to inspire scholars today, and his legacy as a distinguished Latinist and philologist will endure for years to come.
Antonio La Penna’s death marks the loss of a giant in the field of Latin literature and philology, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the study of the classics. His scholarship, teaching, and mentorship have inspired countless students and scholars, both in Italy and around the world. La Penna’s work will continue to be celebrated and studied for its depth, insight, and enduring relevance to the field of classical studies. His legacy as a preeminent scholar of Latin literature and philology will continue to shape the future of classical scholarship for generations to come.
