Vladimir S. Solov’ev, traduttore di Petrarca

Abstract

This essay examines the Russian translation of the final song from Petrarch’s Canzoniere, completed in 1883 by the Russian philosopher Vladimir S. Solov’ev (1853-1900). This translation represents a pivotal moment in the reception of Petrarch in Russia, significantly contributing to the emergence of the unique “mythopoetic meaning” that Petrarch’s poetry and persona later assumed within the Symbolist movement. The analysis delves into the literary and philosophical dimensions of Solov’ev’s rendition, revealing how it reflects the evolution of his thought - particularly in relation to his sophiology and his aspiration for spiritual unity between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Key aspects under consideration include the metric structure, stylistic choices, and symbolic nuances of the translation, with special attention to adaptations that connect the Virgin Mary to the sophiological idea ofDivine Wisdom. Solov’ev’s translation is fùrther contextualized within his broader philosophical-religious vision, which addresses themes such as love, beauty, and the transformation of humanity into Divine Humanity. Finally, the essay explores personal factors, including Solov’ev’s complicated relationship with SoT ya P. Khitrovo, which influenced specific choices in his rendering of Petrarch’s text into Russian.