Soloecista. Lucius or The Ass. Amores. Halcyon. Demosthenes. Podagra. Ocypus. Cyniscus. Philopatris. Charidemus. Nero

This collection showcases the sharp wit and satire of Lucian, exploring themes of human folly and superstition through entertaining dialogues.

The work titled Soloecista. Lucius or The Ass. Amores. Halcyon. Demosthenes. Podagra. Ocypus. Cyniscus. Philopatris. Charidemus. Nero presents a fascinating exploration of the life and wit of Lucian, a prominent satirist from the second century AD. Initially an apprentice sculptor, Lucian transitioned into a successful traveling rhetorician, ultimately settling in Athens. His unique style of satire is characterized by a blend of sharp humor and keen observation, allowing him to effectively critique human nature and societal norms. The dialogues contained within this collection reflect his mastery of language and literary form, showcasing his ability to engage readers through both entertainment and insight.

Lucian's dialogues are renowned for their Attic purity and elegance, making them a significant contribution to classical literature. His works, including A True Story, Dialogues of the Gods, and Dialogues of the Dead, exemplify his talent for humorously dissecting the follies of humanity, superstition, and hypocrisy. Rather than aiming to instruct, Lucian's primary goal was to amuse, which he accomplished through his lively and cynical wit. Each dialogue serves as a vehicle for satire, challenging the reader to reflect on the absurdities of life.

The collection also highlights Lucian's versatility as a writer, as he navigates various themes and subjects in his works. The Loeb Classical Library edition of Soloecista. Lucius or The Ass. Amores. Halcyon. Demosthenes. Podagra. Ocypus. Cyniscus. Philopatris. Charidemus. Nero consists of eight volumes, ensuring that readers can fully appreciate the depth and breadth of Lucian's literary contributions. His legacy as antiquity's supreme satirist continues to resonate, making this collection a valuable addition to any literary library.