Martial Bücher

Marcus Valerius Martialis, geboren 40 n. Chr. in Nordspanien, ist der bedeutendste römische Epigrammdichter. In vierzehn Büchern sind über 1500 Epigramme überliefert. Der Band bietet einen Einblick in Martials Kunst, mit Themen von Lobreden bis zu obszönen Bemerkungen und Kommentaren zu Großstadtlastern.

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.

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.