Juvenal (1st-2nd century CE) Flashcards
Who was Juvenal?
Juvenal was a Roman poet known for his biting satirical poems, particularly his collection titled ‘Satires’.
When was Juvenal born?
Juvenal was likely born around 55-60 CE.
What is Juvenal’s most famous work?
Juvenal’s most famous work is his collection of poems called ‘Satires’.
What does the phrase ‘bread and circuses’ refer to in Juvenal’s Satires?
‘Bread and circuses’ refers to how Roman rulers pacified the masses with food and entertainment instead of addressing deeper societal issues.
What genre is Juvenal known for?
Juvenal is known for writing satire.
Which Roman emperor’s reign did Juvenal critique through satire?
Juvenal critiqued Emperor Domitian’s reign in his satires.
What were the major themes of Juvenal’s Satires?
The major themes of Juvenal’s Satires include corruption, moral decay, social inequality, and the vices of Roman society.
How did Juvenal’s work influence literature?
Juvenal’s work influenced the development of satire as a literary genre, especially the harsher ‘Juvenalian satire’ which is cynical and biting.
What does ‘Juvenalian satire’ refer to?
‘Juvenalian satire’ refers to a harsh, bitter form of satire focused on exposing corruption and moral decay.
In what period of Roman history did Juvenal live?
Juvenal lived during the late 1st and early 2nd centuries CE.
How is Juvenal’s phrase ‘bread and circuses’ still relevant today?
‘Bread and circuses’ is used today to describe how governments or institutions distract people with superficial rewards instead of addressing real issues.
What legacy did Juvenal leave behind?
Juvenal left a legacy as one of Rome’s greatest satirists, with his work continuing to be studied for its insights into Roman society.
What were some challenges Juvenal faced in his career?
Juvenal faced political dangers, especially during Domitian’s reign, where criticizing powerful figures could lead to exile or worse.
Why might Juvenal have been exiled?
Juvenal may have been exiled for his harsh critiques of corrupt officials, though this is debated.
How did the historical context of Rome influence Juvenal’s work?
The corruption, inequality, and political instability of the Roman Empire during his lifetime heavily influenced Juvenal’s satirical critiques of society.
