The 2,001-year-old odyssey of how humanity transforms its world
In short: From high art to base waste, humans possess an unprecedented power to reshape the planet and ourselves. In a unique fusion of classical poetry, modern commerce, and contemporary music, we explore the terrifying beauty of change and our quest for sustainable survival.
In 8 AD, the Roman poet Publius Ovidius Naso completed 'Metamorphoses,' an epic poem written in dactylic hexameter. Spanning over 600 pages across 15 books, it serves as a definitive reference for Greek and Roman mythology. At its core is life's most enduring theme: change. Ovid’s work has served as a primary inspiration for centuries of creators, including Mozart, Milton, Botticelli, and Joyce. The poem was composed in the grand style of classical times. Ovid lived through a significant political transition from a republic to an empire. His masterpiece has influenced diverse figures like Chaucer and Ted Hughes.
The concept of metamorphosis was further explored in the 20th century by composer Benjamin Britten. His 'Six Metamorphoses After Ovid' (Op.49) provides a musical framework for understanding these transformations. In June 2009, Gresham College combined Britten’s music with modern economic thinking to address a contemporary crisis: how society might metamorphose toward sustainable commerce that exists in harmony with nature. This specific event took place during the City of London Festival. It featured a live saxophone performance by John Harle. William Joseph provided computer graphics for the presentation. The lecture drew from four years of commerce talks.
This exploration highlights a paradox of the modern era. While humanity has never held such immense power to transform its environment—often resulting in 'base waste' and ecological risk—it also faces the constant pressure of change from natural disasters, disease, and technological upheaval. The goal is to envision a future where robust economies and healthy environments are preserved as essential pillars for mankind's survival. The talk began with the myth of Pan playing his reed pipe. This instrument was actually his beloved Syrinx. Gresham College has offered free public lectures since 1597. The institution is considered London's oldest higher education center.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Metamorphoses - Pan - Nature and Mankind - Gresham Sustainability Talk & Benjamin Britten
- Also: Metamorphoses – The Terrible Beauty of Change
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