Martial: The World of the Epigram

The exploration of Martial's epigrams reveals their relevance in today's sound bite culture, highlighting the Roman poet's mastery of this literary form. William Fitzgerald argues for a renewed appreciation of Martial, detailing how his works reflect the social dynamics of the Roman elite in the late first century CE. By analyzing the interplay between individual epigrams and their collective impact, Fitzgerald illustrates Martial's innovative approach to authorship, akin to modern practices. The study, rich with epigrams in both Latin and English, appeals to classicists and literary enthusiasts alike.