Selected Epigrams Book Summary

Dive into the witty and sharp world of Martial's 'Selected Epigrams,' where the ancient Roman poet unveils sharp observations on life, love, and society through vivid verses. A master of brevity, Martial employs humor and satire to comment on the follies of human behavior, making each epigram a clever gem. From biting social critiques to playful banter, these epigrams reveal the vibrant tapestry of Roman life and the timelessness of human nature. Join Martial in a journey of clever wordplay that will leave you both amused and reflective. This collection invites readers to explore how humor transcends time, revealing both the absurd and the profound in everyday life.

By Martial

Published: 2014

""Even the sun, which shines so bright, casts shadows; for all the glory of life, we still find the darkness lingering at our feet.""

Selected EpigramsBook binding

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Book Review of Selected Epigrams

This lively translation accurately captures the wit and uncensored bawdiness of the epigrams of Martial, who satirized Roman society, both high and low, in the first century CE. The selections cover nearly a third of Martial's 1,500 or so epigrams, augmented by a historical introduction and informative notes.

Book Overview of Selected Epigrams

About the Book Author

M

Martial

Martial, a Roman poet from the 1st century AD, is best known for his epigrams, a genre of short, witty poems that often deliver sharp social commentary and humor. His notable works include "Epigrams," a collection that explores themes of love, satire, and daily life in ancient Rome. Martial's writing style is characterized by its brevity, clever wordplay, and vivid imagery, making him a master of the epigrammatic form. His works have influenced countless writers and continue to be studied for their linguistic precision and insight into the social mores of his time.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Martial
Published
December 2014
Publisher
University of Wisconsin Pres
ISBN
0299301745
Language
English
Pages
256
Genres
ClassicsPoetryLiterature

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"Even the sun, which shines so bright, casts shadows; for all the glory of life, we still find the darkness lingering at our feet."

Selected Epigrams

By Martial

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