The Return of Proserpina

Sicily's significance in European thought is examined through the myth of Proserpina, who was taken by the god of the underworld. The author, drawing from her expertise in classics and medieval studies, highlights how this myth intertwines with the narratives of ancient and medieval empires. Through the works of notable poets, Spence illustrates how the story of Proserpina reflects the complexities of imperialism and the evolution of literary tradition, emphasizing literature's role in political discourse and the shifting perceptions of empire across time.