Ausonius
Latin · Poetry · Didactic Poetry · Epigram · Elegy
9 works · 1,391 aligned sentences
Conclusion to the Book of Fasti
This short poem poetically organizes the history of eternal Rome and the successive consular years that have marked its progress. The poet calculates the years accumulated since the founding of Rome, praising the empire's enduring existence. Furthermore, he addresses the reader with expectations for their future assumption of the consulship, celebrating the honor of becoming a leader of the state. Through elegant verse, the historical continuity and political glory of Rome are solemnized. Overall, it is a festive and stately work that connects Rome's glorious past with its future prosperity.
Poetry1 chunks · §1-2440 aligned sentencesRead →Cupid Crucified
This narrative poem by Ausonius depicts the trials of Cupid (Amor), the god of love, in the Underworld. Following a prose preface, the poem opens with a vivid description of the Fields of Mourning, where mythical heroines who died of love wander. When Cupid inadvertently wanders into this dark realm, he is captured by these vengeful heroines, who bind him to a myrtle tree as punishment for their past sufferings. Even his own mother, Venus, joins in, scourging him with thorny roses. However, moved by his severe suffering, the women eventually feel pity and reconcile with him. Ultimately, Cupid awakens and returns to the heavens through the ivory gate of dreams.
Poetry2 chunks · §pr-41–§42-103199 aligned sentencesRead →Epicedion on His Father
This work is a funerary elegy (epicedion) dedicated by the Late Roman poet Ausonius to his deceased father of the same name. The composition consists of a prose preface followed by a poetic encomium in verse. In the introductory prose, the author briefly expresses his grief and tribute, setting a solemn tone for the poetic narrative that follows. The main poem recounts the life of the elder Ausonius, a highly skilled physician who lived a life of integrity, choosing to shun public honors and excessive wealth. It also details the virtues of his character and the prosperity and harmony enjoyed by his family. Ultimately, the work concludes by honoring his peaceful death at an advanced age, surrounded by his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of familial affection and deep respect.
Poetry1 chunks · §pr-64147 aligned sentencesRead →Genethliacon to Grandson
This poem is a birthday song (genethliacon) filled with blessing and affection, addressed by the poet to his beloved grandson on his eighteenth birthday. The poet begins by reflecting on the past, recalling how he carefully avoided harsh teachings when his grandson was still young to spare him from undue burden. He then warmly gazes upon the grandson's present growth, both in body and mind, as the youth reaches his eighteenth year (the completion of his sixth triennial). Finally, with deep grandfatherly love, the poet offers earnest prayers and blessings for the grandson's future path in life.
Poetry1 chunks · §1-2845 aligned sentencesRead →On His Little Estate
This poetic work, written after the author completed his term as consul and returned to his homeland, sings of the virtue of mental self-sufficiency set against the backdrop of a small estate inherited from his father. Standing before his modest ancestral property, the poet philosophically reflects on the peace of mind brought by a life within one's means. He goes on to describe the specific scale of the estate, detailing the size of the arable land, vineyards, and forests, showing that although small, it is perfectly sufficient for a family. Furthermore, he highlights the charm of a comfortable life in the countryside, which maintains an exquisite distance from the city, allowing him to enjoy quietude while remaining close enough to access urban conveniences. Ultimately, the work conveys a deep conviction that true freedom and happiness lie not in excessive wealth, but in being content with a modest and harmonious environment.
Poetry1 chunks · §pr-3274 aligned sentencesRead →Paschal Verses
This work is a Christian poem celebrating the festival of Christ's resurrection. The poem begins with a depiction of the faithful joyfully celebrating the Resurrection and offering heartfelt praise to God. It then touches upon the theological doctrine of the Trinity while expressing deep devotion to Christ. Finally, the poet prays to Christ for the prosperity and stable reign of the earthly co-emperors. In this way, the poem beautifully combines religious celebration with a prayer for secular rulers, forming a solemn hymn.
Poetry1 chunks · §1-3148 aligned sentencesRead →Prayer in Rhopalic Verses
This work is a Christian hymn of prayer dedicated to the Trinity of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. The poem begins by emphasizing the spiritual significance of holding a vigil and worshiping throughout the night. It then dwells on the purification of the soul and the cleansing of sins achieved through the sacrament of baptism. To inspire the believer, the text presents the exemplary lives of early Christian saints and devout converts. Finally, the prayer culminates in a petition for steadfast faith in this world and the attainment of eternal glory in the afterlife. Written in the unique form of rhopalic verses, the work poetically depicts a solemn confession of faith and the path to salvation.
Theology1 chunks · §1-4266 aligned sentencesRead →Riddle of the Number Three
This work is a poetic composition that explores the theme of the number "three" and its square, "nine," by weaving together diverse fields of knowledge. In the prologue, the poet reveals the background of the work, the circumstances of its recovery, and his intention to dedicate it to a friend while justifying his conciseness. The main poem catalogs various examples associated with the numbers "three" and "nine," drawing from mythology, history, natural science, geometry, law, and literature. Through these examples, the poet illustrates the mystical order of numbers found within nature and human society. Ultimately, the poet declares that the entire poem will consist of exactly ninety lines, embodying the significance of the number "nine" through the very structure of the work.
Poetry2 chunks · §pr.1-pr.3–§1.1-1.90261 aligned sentencesRead →The Play of the Seven Sages
This work is a dramatic presentation in which the "Seven Sages" of ancient Greece appear on stage one after another to deliver their famous maxims and philosophical teachings. Beginning with a poetic dedication by Ausonius, a prologue explains the significance of the play and the wisdom of the sages. First, Solon enters to explain the importance of judging a life only at its end, recounting his famous encounter with King Croesus. He is followed by Chilon, who speaks on "Know thyself," and Cleobulus, who extols the virtue of moderation ("moderation is best"). Finally, Thales, Bias, Pittacus, and Periander appear in turn to share their respective precepts on the dangers of surety, human nature, proper timing, and forethought. Each sage concisely demonstrates his wisdom, offering the audience timeless guidance on virtue and conduct.
Drama3 chunks · §1-79–§156-230511 aligned sentencesRead →