The Georgics

Virgil · Composed in the late Roman Republic/early Principate, chiefly 37–29 BCE primary

passage 23 of 48 · (4/8)

in brief

Virgil idealizes an earlier, pre-war age, claiming that before kings like Dicte and before people became “godless,” life resembled Saturn’s golden rule with no war or sword.

Ay, ere the reign of Dicte's king, ere men, Waxed godless, banqueted on slaughtered bulls, Such life on earth did golden Saturn lead. Nor ear of man had heard the war-trump's blast, Nor clang of sword on stubborn anvil set. But lo! a boundless space we have travelled o'er; 'Tis time our steaming horses to unyoke.

← previous passage read in the full work → next passage →

topics: fate, destiny, and necessity · forms of government

The Georgics · Virgil · 37–29 BCE