Quintus Ennius (239–169 BC), widely recognized as the father of Roman literature, was instrumental in creating a new Roman literary identity and inspired significant developments in Roman religion, social organization, and popular culture. Born in Calabria in the city of Rudiae in Magna Graecia, Ennius claimed descent from Messapus, a legendary hero of Messapia, and was the uncle of the tragic playwright Pacuvius. Brought to Rome in 204 BC from Sardinia in the entourage of Cato, Ennius established himself independently on the Aventine and, speaking his native Oscan as well as Greek and Latin fluently, became one of the first teachers to introduce Greek learning to the Romans through public readings of Greek and Latin texts. Transcending partisan differences, Ennius cultivated friendly relations with several of Rome's leading families, including that of Marcus Fulvius Nobilior, through whom he eventually obtained Roman citizenship.
Best known for adapting Greek epic and dramatic literature, Ennius also pursued a wide range of literary endeavors and, apart from comedy, found success in all of them. He thus played a major role in defining Roman literature in its inclusive directions during the Republic. His tragedies were regarded as classic works of the genre, while his "Annals" lent Roman epic literature its canonical character and pioneered many of its most characteristic features. His other efforts included philosophical works in prose and verse, encomia, didactic poems, dramatic works on Roman themes (praetextae), and occasional poetry that informed the later development of satire.
This discographic edition of Ennius, inaugurating the Loeb Fragmentary Roman Latin series, replaces that of Warmington in the "Remains of Old Latin," Volume I, and offers new texts, translations, and commentary fully updated with contemporary research.
Pages: 592, Year of Publication: 0108, Dimensions: 10.8x10.8cm
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