Roman Literature: Origins, Characteristics, and Key Genres

Roman Literature: Origins and Development

Greek Influence

Latin literature developed under the impetus and continuing influence of Greek literature. The first works were inspired directly by Greek models. Roman authors followed the guidelines defined by already established Greek literary genres, both prose and verse. In some cases, they even aimed to match and exceed their Greek models. They also created a genre of their own, such as satire.

Characteristics

The importance of agriculture in Roman culture is reflected in poems that highlight ancestral virtues such as honesty, industriousness, and a harmonious relationship with nature. Patriotism and the praise of Rome's greatness are dominant themes throughout Roman literature. Criticism of customs and social attitudes is reflected in genres such as satire, epigram, and comedy.

Roman Poetry: Genres and Key Works

• The Epic: Sings the legendary exploits of heroes in an elevated language. The main work is Virgil's Aeneid. Ovid's Metamorphoses also stands out.
• Lyrical Poetry: Characterized by celebration and praise, it also provides space for the expression of emotions and subjective feelings. Most importantly, the poet Horace in his Odes covers topics such as love, friendship, and the pleasures of life.
• The Elegy: A poetry of mourning, often highly personal and autobiographical. The main theme was love with all its implications. Ovid cultivated this kind of poetry with a variety of tones and perspectives.
• Satire: A genre whose typical representatives include Horace, Persius, and Juvenal. This genre highlights in its poems the many aspects of daily life in Rome, viewed with critical eyes.
• Theater: Also a verse genre, divided into comedy and tragedy. Plautus and Terence excelled in it.

Latin Prose: Oratory and Philosophy

• Public Speaking (Oratory): The art of public speaking, presenting arguments clearly and precisely in order to convince the audience. Cicero was a prominent representative.
• Philosophy: The Greek doctrine most widespread in Rome was Stoicism due to its moral dimension, which was well-suited to the practical Roman mindset. Key representatives included Cicero and Seneca.