James Henry (poet)

James Henry (1798-1876) was an Irish physician and Latin poet. Born in Dublin, he received his medical degree from Trinity College Dublin in 1821. He practiced medicine for several years but eventually retired to dedicate himself to classical scholarship and the writing of Latin verse. Henry is primarily known for his commentaries on Virgil, notably his Aeneidea (published in several volumes between 1873 and 1889), which offered new interpretations and textual emendations. His work on Virgil, though often controversial and characterized by a highly idiosyncratic and occasionally abrasive style, was nonetheless significant in its thoroughness and attention to detail. He travelled extensively throughout Europe, often consulting manuscripts and engaging in scholarly debate. Despite his medical background, his legacy rests on his contributions to classical scholarship, particularly his analysis of Virgil's works. He died in Dalkey, Ireland.