Abstract:
Examines the ten prose prefaces which head the Epigrams of Martial (AD c45-c96) and the Siluae of Statius (c45-c96). The most remarkable feature of these ten pieces of prose is that they are the first extant instances of collections of verse which are headed with pieces of prose, and it is chiefly from this angle that the prefaces are studied. The thesis is devoted to a close thematic examination of the prefaces. Their content is discussed in terms of justification, information and request. Within this framework the prefaces are examined with reference to the literary history of prefacing, the production and dissemination of ancient literature, the patronage of letters, and the biographies of the two poets. There is a study of the prose style of the two authors who are otherwise known only as poets. As regards the clausulae (prose rhythm) of the prefaces, Martial and Statius are shown to follow in the Ciceronian mould. The prose of Statius is also shown to have elements of the 'pointed style' associated with Silver Latin. The study surveys what alternatives to the prose preface were used by Martial and Statius. The survey makes it clear that there were other means the poets could use to introduce their collections with much the same effect. Specific attention is paid to the advantages the prose preface offered.
