Virgil

Date of Birth: October 15, 70 BCE

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: September 21, 19 BCE

Biography

Publius Vergilius Maro, widely known as Virgil, was a classical Roman poet born on October 15, 70 BCE, in Andes, near Mantua in Italy. He is best known for his epic poem “The Aeneid,” which has been one of the most influential works in Western literature. Virgil’s poetry is noted for its rich expression, deep philosophical themes, and intricate craftsmanship. He spent much of his life in the company of prominent intellectuals and political figures of his time, including Augustus Caesar, who recognized his literary genius. In addition to “The Aeneid,” Virgil authored “The Eclogues” and “The Georgics,” both of which reflect his profound understanding of rural life and his love for the Italian countryside. Virgil passed away on September 21, 19 BCE, in Brundisium, now Brindisi, Italy. His work has left an indelible mark on literature and continues to be studied and revered to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Virgil

1. Virgil’s tomb was said to bear the inscription “Mantua me genuit, Calabri rapuere, tenet nunc Parthenope; cecini pascua, rura, duces,” which translates to “Mantua gave me life, the Calabrians took it away, now Parthenope holds me; I sang of pastures, fields, and leaders.”

2. “The Aeneid” was commissioned by Augustus Caesar to celebrate the Roman Empire’s origins and glorify his rule.

3. Virgil spent the last ten years of his life working on “The Aeneid” and intended to spend three more years perfecting it. He asked for it to be destroyed upon his death, but Augustus ordered its preservation.

4. Virgil was part of the literary circle that included other prominent poets such as Horace and Propertius.

5. His work has influenced countless authors, including Dante Alighieri, who made Virgil his guide through Hell and Purgatory in “The Divine Comedy.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Virgil

1. “Fortune favors the bold.”

2. “Love conquers all; let us too yield to love.”

3. “They can because they think they can.”

4. “The descent into Hell is easy.”

5. “The greatest wealth is health.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While concrete figures regarding Virgil’s net worth are not available, it is known that he was well supported by his patrons, particularly Augustus Caesar, which allowed him the freedom to pursue his literary endeavors without financial strain.