The Elder Pliny on the Human Animal: Natural History Book 7

by Mary Beagon (Translator)

Overview

As a detailed study of the human animal, described by its author as the raison d'etre of nature, Book Seven of the elder Pliny's Natural History is crucial to the understanding of the work as a whole. In addition, however, it provides a valuable insight into the extraordinary complex of ideas and beliefs current in Pliny's era, many of which have resonances for other eras and cultures. The present study includes a substantial introduction examining the background to Pliny's life, thought, and writing, together with a modern English translation, and a detailed commentary which emphasizes the importance of Book Seven as possibly the most fascinating cultural record surviving from early imperial Rome.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780191518355
Publisher:	OUP Oxford
Publication date:	03/17/2005
Series:	Clarendon Ancient History Series
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	1 MB

About the Author

Mary Beagon is Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, University of Manchester.

Table of Contents

1. IntroductionA. The author: Pliny's career and its problemsB. The Flavian backgroundC. The intellectual backgroundD. The nature of the Natural HistoryE. HN 7: themes and approaches2. Translation3. Commentary