Horace

Horace was born in Venusia in south-east Italy in 65 BC. His father was an ex-slave who later became a successful businessman.

After the assassination of Julius Caesar, Horace became a senior officer in Brutus' army. When Brutus was defeated by Octavian in 42 BC, Horace's family's property was confiscated.

Forced to earn a living as a scribe, he spent his spare time writing poetry. His work was brought to the attention of Maecenas, (Emperor Augustus' unofficial Minister of Propaganda). Horace was given a villa and financial help so that he could write full-time.

Horace's work reflects strong support for the achievements of Augustus, and occasionally attacks government enemies such as Mark Antony and Cleopatra.

Horace died in 6 BC.

Primary Sources

(1) In his poem Ode XXXVII, Horace described Cleopatra's defeat at Actium (c. 35 BC)

Cleopatra had planned in hate to smash the Capitol and sack the conquered Roman State.

She and her plotting gang, diseased and vile, went mad with heady dreams of baseless pride.

(2) Horace, Satires II (c. 30 BC)

If a man makes wicked verses against another the law and the courts await him.

(3) Horace, Epode (c. 35 BC)

No wolves or lions are so fiercely blind, they do not fight with their own kind.

(4) Horace, Odes (c. 25 BC)

While the world's bound by Augustus' laws, I need not expect war or a violent end... While Augustus stands guard, peace is assured.

(5) Horace, Satires II (c. 30 BC)

If a man makes wicked verses against another the law and the courts await him.