Greek Epigram in the Roman Empire Martial's Forgotten Rivals

by Nisbet, Gideon

• ISBN13: 9780199263370
• ISBN10: 019926337X
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2004-02-26
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

When we say "epigram," we mean "Martial"--whether we know it or not. After Martial, a Roman poet of the first century AD, epigram would always mean satirical epigram: a short, funny poem with a sting in its tail. But Martial was an imitator. He copied and adapted the real innovators: the Greek poets who were already turning epigram into antiquity's sharpest--and shortest--form of satirical humor. This book finally gives them their due, uncovering a forgotten world of wicked puns and violent slapstick.

Author Biography

Gideon Nisbet is Lecturer in Classics, St John's College, Oxford

Table of Contents

Editions and Abbreviations	x
Dramatis Personae	xi
Introduction: 'Skoptic Epigram'	xiii
1 Reading Skoptic Epigram	1	(13)
2 Situating Skoptic Epigram	14	(22)
3 Loukillios	36	(46)
4 Nikarkhos	82	(16)
5 Broken Masks: Skoptic Epigram's Identity Crisis	98	(15)
6 Political Epigram? Loukillios and Nero	113	(21)
7 Ammianos	134	(31)
8 Loukianos	165	(17)
9 Skoptic Oddments	182	(27)
10 Conclusion	209	(5)
Bibliography	214	(9)
Index Locorum	223	(4)
General Index	227