Satyricon. Apocolocyntosis

The Satyrica and Apocolocyntosis are two Roman satires that survive as fragments of a larger whole. The Satyrica is a first-person narrative by Encolpius, a brilliant storyteller, parodist, and mimic who recalls episodes from his past life as a wandering bohemian. The Apocolocyntosis is a short satirical pamphlet lampooning the death, apotheosis, and attempt to enter heaven of the emperor Claudius. The Latin texts have been freshly edited and translated, with ample introductions and explanatory notes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2021
Publisher: Harvard University Press

Two remarkable Roman satires have endured through the ages, leaving a lasting impact on literature. The Satyrica, traditionally attributed to the Neronian Petronius (d. AD 66), is a comic-picaresque fiction in prose and verse, although its true authorship may be of Flavian or Trajanic date. Despite surviving as fragments of a much larger whole, it remains a testament to the brilliance of its storytelling. The narrative is presented in the first person by Encolpius, a charming ne'er-do-well with a talent for storytelling, parody, and mimicry. He reminisces about his past life as a wandering bohemian, navigating the margins of society in Greek southern Italy. Along the way, he encounters a diverse array of characters, including the wealthy freedman Trimalchio, one of the most unforgettable figures in Latin literature.

In contrast to the Satyrica, the Apocolocyntosis is a short satirical pamphlet that humorously portrays the death, apotheosis, and attempted entrance into heaven of the emperor Claudius (reigned 41–54). While the work is traditionally attributed to Lucius Annaeus Seneca (4 BC–AD 65), it is believed to have been influenced by his bitterness over his exile at Claudius' hands in 41–49. Seneca's sarcastic wit and rollicking humor shine through in this Loeb edition, which features freshly edited Latin texts accompanied by ample introductions and explanatory notes.

These satires serve as a testament to the enduring power of humor and satire, offering a glimpse into the social and political dynamics of ancient Rome. They continue to delight readers with their witty observations, clever wordplay, and memorable characters, reminding us of the importance of laughter in navigating the challenges of life.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 117 x 171 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674997370