Petrarch expected to achieve great fame from his epic biographical poem Africa, which was based on the life of Scipio Africanus who, to Petrarch, embodies the valiant and pious virtues of the ancient Romans. ... His imitation of Virgil's Aeneid shows the degree to which he relied on Classical literature as a source and guide. ...

• Word Count: 2254
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School