Arms and the man I sing,–not as of old
The Mantuan bard his mighty verse unrolled,
But in such humbler strains as may beseem
Light changes rung on a fantastic theme.
My tale is ancient, but the sense is new,–
Replete with monstrous fictions, yet half true;–
And, if you’ll follow till the story’s done,
I promise much instruction, and some fun.