Lucan: De bello civili Book II

This comprehensive commentary explores the second book of Lucan's epic, Lucan: De bello civili Book II, highlighting key themes and characters.

This edition provides an in-depth commentary on the often-overlooked second book of Lucan's epic poem about the civil war between Caesar and Pompey, titled Lucan: De bello civili Book II. The commentary delves into Lucan's literary heritage, particularly his relationship with Virgil's Augustan epic, exploring how Lucan both inherits from and responds to Virgil's themes and challenges. The second book features prominent figures such as Cato, Caesar, and Pompey, showcasing their speeches and actions while grappling with the moral and political complexities of civil war.

In Lucan: De bello civili Book II, the narrative vividly illustrates Pompey's diminishing authority as he retreats from Italy, employing language that both evokes and seeks to undermine Virgil's heroic depiction of Aeneas and the founding myth of Rome. Professor Fantham's introduction offers valuable context about Lucan's life and work, followed by a detailed examination of his narrative style and interpretation of Caesar's military actions in Italy, particularly in the first two books of the epic.

The commentary also includes essential grammatical explanations and aids for translation, while aiming to enrich the reader's understanding of the political, historical, and geographical contexts surrounding Lucan's narrative. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers can fully appreciate the depth and significance of Lucan's work within the broader framework of Roman literature.