Marcus Valerius Martialis Libri

As a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian text, this book captures the historical essence of its time, despite potential imperfections like marks and notations. It emphasizes the significance of preserving cultural literature and offers readers an opportunity to engage with a piece of history in a modern, accessible format. The commitment to maintaining the authenticity of the original work underscores its value in the literary landscape.

Analyses the successful stability of Oman despite very real social pressures

In his epigrams, Martial (c. 40 c. 103 CE) is a keen, sharp-tongued observer of Roman scenes and events, including the new Colosseum, country life, a debauchee s banquet, and the eruption of Vesuvius. His poems are sometimes obscene, in the tradition of the genre, sometimes affectionate or amusing, and always pointed.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, preserving its cultural significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It aims to protect and promote classic literature by providing an affordable, high-quality edition that remains true to the original text.

This collection features a curated selection of Martial's poems, accompanied by a comprehensive introduction and insightful commentary. It is designed specifically for students, providing context and analysis to enhance understanding and appreciation of Martial's work. The book serves as an educational resource, making the poems accessible and engaging for readers exploring themes of wit, satire, and Roman life.

Marcus Valerius Martialis established the epigram as an enduring poetic form in Western literature. His work covers a great range of subjects and tones, but his characteristic themes are the flaws, vices, and hypocricies of his fellow Romans, which he nails again and again in compressed, trenchant conclusions. The emperors Titus and Domitian both regarded him favorably and helped support him, not with money but with rank and privilege. His patrons included Pliny the Younger, who mentions Martial in one of his letters. Many later writers have imitated and translated Martial especially the Elizabethan poets and in recent years his work has enjoyed a boom in new scholarship. Despite his penchant for obscenity and his servile flattery of Domitian, his poetic skill, keen observation, and riotous humor will always attract new readers.

This antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of an original work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. The reprint aims to protect and promote cultural literature, ensuring accessibility through high-quality modern editions that remain faithful to the original text.

Exploring the overlooked significance of Martial's Book of the Spectacles, this work challenges the notion of its inferiority within Classical poetry. The author highlights current scholarship, particularly by Kathleen Coleman, which re-evaluates the text's historical and literary context. The unique themes of animal fights and blood sports serve as a backdrop for a deeper examination of irony and double-entendre, reflecting Martial's complex relationship with Emperor Domitian. This translation aims to bring forth the poem's rich layers rather than engage in historical debates.

Culturally significant, this reproduction preserves the integrity of the original artifact, including copyright references and library stamps. It serves as a vital contribution to the knowledge base of civilization, reflecting the historical context and importance of the work. Scholars have recognized its value, ensuring that readers can engage with the text as it was originally presented.