On The Nature of Things - Softcover

Carus, Titus Lucretius

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1617430420 ISBN 13: 9781617430428

Publisher: Greenbook Publications, LLC, 2011

Synopsis

An epic poem written in Latin as De rerum natura by Lucretius which explores the materialist philosophy of the Greek philosopher Epicurus. Lucretius divided his argument into six books. Books I and II establish the main principles of the atomic universe. Book III demonstrates the atomic structure and mortality of the soul and ends with a triumphant sermon on the theme "Death is nothing to us." Book IV describes the mechanics of sense perception, thought, and certain bodily functions and condemns sexual passion. Book V describes the creation and working of the world and the celestial bodies and the evolution of life and human society. Book VI explains remarkable phenomena of the earth and sky, in particular, thunder and lightning. Using poetic language and metaphor, the Lucretius describes a world ruled by physical principles, rather than the divine will. Called the "the most complete analysis of the atomic composition of matter prior to twentieth-century nuclear physics."

About this title

From the Back Cover:

English translation of Classic Latin text with notes, introduction, glossary of key terms. .An outstanding translation of the complete poem which adheres faithfully to the text, with poetic force, accuracy, and humanitas. Includes intro, notes, outline and a glossary of philosophical terms cross-referenced to use throughout the poem.

About the Author:

Walter Englert is the Omar and Althea Hoskins Professor of Classical Studies at Reed College in Oregon. He earned his PhD at Stanford University, and has published on aspects of Epicureanism, Stoicism and Roman Philosophy.

About this edition

• Publisher: Greenbook Publications, LLC
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 1617430420
• ISBN 13: 9781617430428
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 212