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

by Mary Beagon

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 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:	9780199277018
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	06/02/2005
Series:	Clarendon Ancient History Series
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	538
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 5.40(h) x 1.20(d)

About the Author

Mary Beagon is Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History at the 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