Letters of the Younger Pliny, First Series — Volume 1   By: the Younger Pliny (62?-113)

In Letters of the Younger Pliny, First Series — Volume 1 by the Younger Pliny, readers are presented with a remarkable collection of personal and professional correspondence, offering a unique glimpse into the life and times of one of ancient Rome's most esteemed figures.

Spanning a period from 97 AD to 103 AD, these letters provide a striking portrayal of Pliny, the man as well as the statesman. As a trusted adviser to the Emperor Trajan, Pliny's epistolary style reflects both his duties as an imperial Roman official and his genuine humanity.

Pliny's letters exhibit an astonishing range of topics, providing readers with an abundance of historical information, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes. From public affairs, legal matters, and administrative challenges, to personal experiences, friendships, and literary discussions, each letter unfolds with a sense of immediacy and sincerity that leaves an indelible impression.

One of the most engaging aspects of this collection is the glimpse it offers into Pliny's character. His integrity, intellect, and capacity for empathy shine through his words, making him an incredibly relatable and admirable figure. Whether he is dispensing advice to his correspondents or expressing heartfelt condolences, Pliny's writing is marked by his inherent desire to connect with others on a profound level.

Additionally, the variety of correspondents featured in this volume adds depth and diversity to the collection. From fellow scholars and philosophers to friends and family, Pliny's ability to forge and maintain meaningful relationships is evident. Each letter provides a window into the social fabric of ancient Rome, revealing the intricate web of alliances, rivalries, and friendships that defined the era.

The translation provided by the editor is precise, elegant, and accessible, allowing contemporary readers to fully appreciate the richness of Pliny's writings. The editor's explanatory notes, maps, and informative introduction make the text even more approachable, enhancing its historical and cultural context.

While the sheer volume of letters in this collection might seem daunting, it is ultimately the strength of Pliny's voice and his ability to captivate readers that makes this book a truly remarkable read. Letters of the Younger Pliny, First Series — Volume 1 invites us into the private world of a man who lived amidst the grandeur and turmoil of ancient Rome, revealing his intellect, humanity, and unwavering commitment to duty.

In conclusion, this collection of letters by the Younger Pliny is a captivating and illuminating read for anyone interested in ancient Rome, classical literature, or simply being transported into the world of an extraordinary figure. Pliny's words continue to reverberate across time, reminding us of the enduring power of personal correspondence to transcend generations and connect us with the past.

First Page:

Some slight memoir and critical estimate of the author of this collection of Letters may perhaps be acceptable to those who are unfamiliar with the circumstances of the times in which he lived. Moreover, few have studied the Letters themselves without feeling a warm affection for the writer of them. He discloses his character therein so completely, and, in spite of his glaring fault of vanity and his endless love of adulation, that character is in the main so charming, that one can easily understand the high esteem in which Pliny was held by the wide circle of his friends, by the Emperor Trajan, and by the public at large. The correspondence of Pliny the Younger depicts for us the everyday life of a Roman gentleman in the best sense of the term. We see him practising at the Bar; we see him engaged in the civil magistracies at Rome, and in the governorship of the important province of Bithynia; we see him consulted by the Emperor on affairs of state, and occupying a definite place among the "Amici Caesaris... Continue reading book >>