Apocolocyntosis

Annaeus Seneca Lucius

Description

Lucius Annaeus Seneca, also known as Seneca, or Seneca the Younger, was a Roman Stoic philosopher, statesman and dramatist, who also acted as a tutor and adviser to emperor Nero. Attributed to Seneca is this political satire on the Roman emperor Claudius, Apocolocyntosis or The Pumpkinification of Claudius. The title, meaning "Pumpkinification" or "Gourdification" is a play upon "apotheosis", the process of recognizing a dead Roman emperor as a god.

Sujets

• Histoire

Informations

• Publié par: The Floating Press
• Date de parution: 01 avril 2009
• Nombre de lectures: 0
• EAN13: 9781775414643
• Langue: English

Extrait

APOCOLOCYNTOSIS
THE PUMPKINIFICATION OF CLAUDIUS
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LUCIUS ANNAEUS SENECA
Translated by
W. H. D. ROUSE
 
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Apocolocyntosis The Pumpkinification of Claudius From a 1920 edition.
ISBN 978-1-775414-64-3
© 2009 THE FLOATING PRESS.
While every effort has been used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in The Floating Press edition of this book, The Floating Press does not assume liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in this book. The Floating Press does not accept responsibility for loss suffered as a result of reliance upon the accuracy or currency of information contained in this book. Do not use while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment. Many suitcases look alike.
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Contents
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Introduction I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII XIII XIV XV Endnotes
Introduction
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This piece is ascribed to Seneca by ancient tradition; it is impossibleto prove that it is his, and impossible to prove that it is not. Thematter will probably continue to be decided by every one according to hisview of Seneca's character and abilities: in the matters of style and ofsentiment much may be said on both sides. Dion Cassius (lx, 35) says thatSeneca composed an (Greek: apokolokuntosis) or Pumpkinification ofClaudius after his death, the title being a parody of the usual (Greek: apotheosis) ; but this title is not given in the MSS. of the Ludusde Morte Claudii, nor is there anything in the piece which suits the titlevery well.
As a literary form, the piece belongs to the class called Satura Menippea , a satiric medley in prose and verse.
This text is that of Buecheler, with a few trifling changes, which areindicated in the notes. We have been courteously allowed by MessrsWeidmann to use this text. I have to acknowledge the help of Mr Ball'snotes, from which I have taken a few references; but my translation wasmade many years ago.
W.H.D. ROUSE.
I
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I wish to place on record the proceedings in heavenOctober 13 last, of the new year which begins this auspicious age. Itshall be done without malice or favour. This is the truth. Ask if you likehow I know it?