Decimus Magnus Ausonius Quotes

A collection of quotes by Decimus Magnus Ausonius.

Decimus Magnus Ausonius, commonly known as Ausonius, was a Roman poet and teacher who lived during the 4th century AD. Born around 310 AD in Bordeaux, Gaul (present-day France), he was believed to come from an influential and wealthy family. Ausonius received a comprehensive education in rhetoric and literature, which allowed him to become a skilled orator and writer.

Throughout his life, Ausonius held various positions in the Roman Empire. He served as a tutor to the future emperor Gratian, educating him in both rhetoric and literature. Later, Ausonius entered the realm of politics and achieved success as a government official. He eventually reached the coveted position of praetorian prefect, the highest administrative rank in the empire.

Ausonius is most renowned for his poetic works, which often celebrated the beauty of nature and praised Roman culture. His writings covered a wide range of topics, from epic poetry to smaller, more personal poems called epigrams. Ausonius was greatly influenced by the works of Virgil, Horace, and other classical Roman poets.

One of his notable works is "Mosella," a poem dedicated to the Moselle River. It describes the river's journey through the landscapes of Gaul, praising its natural beauty and invoking various mythological figures. Another celebrated piece is "The Daily Round," a collection of short poems chronicling the routine and reflections of a teacher.

Ausonius' literary talents earned him recognition during his lifetime, and he became a respected figure in the Roman literary circles of his era. Despite being less well-known today compared to some of his contemporaries, his works continue to provide valuable insights into Roman society and culture.