Gebir (poem)

Gebir is an epic poem written by Walter Savage Landor, published in 1798. The poem, written in English but styled with a classical, Homeric influence, tells the story of Gebir, a prince of Iberia (the ancient region encompassing modern-day Spain and Portugal), and his attempt to win the love of Tamar, a queen of Spain.

The narrative revolves around Gebir's initial success in conquering Tamar's kingdom, followed by his infatuation with her. However, Tamar, feigning affection, ultimately deceives Gebir, causing his demise and the downfall of his army. The poem explores themes of love, ambition, deception, and the transient nature of power.

Gebir is characterized by its rich imagery, complex language, and Landor's meticulous attention to classical form. Although not immediately popular upon its release, the poem gained recognition over time for its literary merit and influence on subsequent generations of poets. Its language and structure have been praised for their precision and artistry, even as some critics have found the plot somewhat obscure or difficult to follow. The poem is considered a significant, if somewhat overlooked, work of late 18th-century English literature.