Virgil Quotes

A collection of quotes by Virgil.

Publius Vergilius Maro, better known as Virgil, was an ancient Roman poet born on October 15, 70 BCE, in a small village near Mantua, Italy. He is known for his epic poem, "The Aeneid," which became one of the most renowned works in Latin literature.

Virgil spent his early years attending schools in Cremona and Milan before moving to Rome to study rhetoric and philosophy. There, he became part of influential literary circles and established connections with prominent figures of the time, such as Horace and Maecenas.

His first major work, "Eclogues" (also known as "Bucolics"), a collection of pastoral poems, brought him considerable recognition. The poems, dealing with themes of love, nature, and rural life, showcased Virgil's remarkable talent and style.

Virgil continued to refine his craft and gained widespread popularity with his second collection, "Georgics." An epic poem in four books, "Georgics" delves into various aspects of agriculture, offering advice and insights into farming techniques. Its lyrical nature and insightful observations made it extremely influential within Roman society.

However, Virgil's lasting legacy lies in his final work, "The Aeneid." Commissioned by Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, this epic poem tells the mythical tale of Aeneas, a Trojan hero who voyages to Italy and becomes the ancestor of Rome's founders. "The Aeneid" portrays Rome as destined for greatness and seeks to glorify both its mythology and Roman values.

Regrettably, Virgil did not complete "The Aeneid" before his death in 19 BCE. He left instructions for the unfinished work to be destroyed, but Augustus intervened and ordered it to be published posthumously. "The Aeneid" became widely admired, with its powerful storytelling and poetic language influencing countless writers throughout history. Virgil's work continues to hold immense significance within the realm of classical literature.