Juvenal
The Satires of Juvenal, Persius, Sulpicia, and Lucilius
Literally translated into English prose, with notes, chronological tables, arguments, &c.
"The Satires of Juvenal, Persius, Sulpicia, and Lucilius" by Juvenal et al. is a classic collection of Roman satirical poetry written in the late 1st century AD to early 2nd century AD. This work features the sharp and critical voices of notable Roman satirists, with Juvenal being one of the most prominent, addressing the societal issues of his time, including corruption, moral decay, and the vices of the elite. The collection serves as both a historical reflection and a literary exploration of human folly and societal shortcomings. The opening of this compilation introduces various contexts, including the life and works of Juvenal, revealing his journey as a poet during the oppressive reign of Emperor Domitian. It highlights how his experiences, particularly his exile, influenced his biting style and themes centered on tyranny and hypocrisy. The preface emphasizes the lack of faithful prose translations prior to this one and sets the stage for the accompanying metrical versions of Juvenal and Persius. The translator expresses a deep admiration for the original poets and a desire to convey their literary spirit, offering insights and critiques that will guide readers through the often complex and layered verses that follow.