The Satires of Juvenal, Persius, Sulpicia, and Lucilius / Literally translated into English prose, with notes, chronological tables, arguments, &c.

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

50657

Title

The Satires of Juvenal, Persius, Sulpicia, and Lucilius / Literally translated into English prose, with notes, chronological tables, arguments, &c.

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the first complete English prose translation of the satires of Juvenal, Persius, Sulpicia, and Lucilius. Featuring original notes, chronological tables, and arguments, it offers a faithful yet spirited rendering of these difficult Latin works. The collection also includes William Gifford's celebrated metrical version of Juvenal and Persius, providing readers with both a literal understanding and a poetic appreciation of these enduring classics of Roman literature.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled by the Rev. Lewis Evans and William Gifford, this volume serves as a definitive guide to the Roman satirical tradition, presenting a comprehensive exploration of ancient morality, social criticism, and ethical living. The collection begins with the biting critiques of Juvenal, who laments the profound moral decay of Rome. He vividly portrays a city transformed into a marketplace of vice, where bribery is rampant, foreign influences have corrupted local customs, and the wealthy live in hypocrisy while the poor suffer in desperation. Juvenal contrasts the inherent dangers of urban life—constant fires, collapsing buildings, and the absurdity of public life—with the quiet, honest retreat of the countryside, urging a departure from a society where honest toil yields no profit. Following Juvenal, Persius offers a philosophical meditation on wealth and virtue. Through a dialogue with an imaginary heir, he exposes the cupidity of those who hoard resources merely to squander them upon a spendthrift successor. Persius argues against the extremes of miserliness and prodigality, advocating instead for a life of moderation and generosity. He insists that true happiness is found in using one's fortune responsibly to aid the distressed, rather than abusing wealth or living in sordid meanness. The satire concludes with a graphic conversation that challenges the reader to enjoy life's pleasures while they last, rather than anxiously waiting for death. The volume also includes the rare fragments of Sulpicia and Lucilius, offering unique glimpses into the lives of a female poet and a minor satirist, respectively. These additions broaden the scope of the collection beyond the major figures of the genre. Evans' clear prose translations provide faithful explanations of the original Latin texts, while Gifford's metrical versions allow readers to experience the rhythmic power and spirit of the poetry. Together, these works illuminate the moral landscape of ancient Rome, addressing themes of human nature, social corruption, and the pursuit of virtue that remain relevant to the modern world. The inclusion of extensive notes and chronological tables further enriches the reader's understanding, grounding the satires in their historical context and highlighting the enduring significance of these classical voices.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Poetry