Page:Monsieur Bossu's Treatise of the epick poem - Le Bossu (1695).djvu/34



After what has been said in favour of Epick Poetry, it may be expected I should say something in behalf of my Author, and give the World some account of the Reasons that induc'd me to Translate it: But before I do either, I must beg leave to premise a word or two, which to the more Judicious may not seem to be a Digression.

To Criticise upon any Author, is no such easie matter as some may imagine: But to pass a true and impartial Judgment upon the Writings of the Poets, may be justly reckon'd one of the hardest parts of Criticism. Every little Pretender is not fit for such an Undertaking. It requires a large but regulated Fancy, a sound, solid, and penetrating Judgment, deep, piercing, and steady Thoughts, a long and obstinate Course of Study, much and certain Experience, a clear and perfect insight into Poetry and all its parts; but above all, the utmost stretch of Humanity and good Nature. Every one that reads Homer and Virgil, cannot be presum'd to understand them perfectly: Nor are all that understand these Authors to be admitted as competent Judges of