Thomas Babington Macaulay Macaulay
Lays of Ancient Rome
"Lays of Ancient Rome" by Baron Thomas Babington Macaulay Macaulay is a collection of narrative poems published in 1842. Four lays recreate heroic episodes from early Roman history—including Horatius's legendary defense of a bridge against an Etruscan army and Virginia's tragic sacrifice that sparked political revolution. Two additional poems celebrate Protestant military victories in European history. Written during Macaulay's time in India, these dramatically charged ballads became immensely popular in British schools, teaching generations about courage, self-sacrifice, and patriotism through stirring verses meant to echo ancient Roman storytelling.