Lucan

Date of Birth: November 3, 39 AD

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: April 30, 65 AD

Biography

Marcus Annaeus Lucanus, commonly known as Lucan, was a prominent Roman poet born on November 3, 39 AD, in Corduba (now Córdoba, Spain). He was the nephew of the famous philosopher Seneca. Lucan is best known for his epic poem “Pharsalia” (also known as “De Bello Civili”), which recounts the civil war between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great. Despite his young age, Lucan gained considerable fame and was favored by Emperor Nero initially. However, due to political intrigue and personal rivalry, he fell out of favor and became involved in the Pisonian conspiracy to overthrow Nero. This led to his forced suicide in 65 AD at the age of 25. Lucan’s works have left a lasting impact on classical literature and continue to be studied for their vivid portrayal of historical events and their complex stylistic elements.

5 Interesting Facts about Lucan

1. Lucan was a prodigious talent who composed his first works before the age of 20.

2. His only surviving work, “Pharsalia,” is considered a masterpiece of Latin literature and remains a critical source for understanding the Roman civil wars.

3. Lucan’s work was highly innovative, deviating from traditional epic poetry by focusing on historical rather than mythological subjects.

4. He was accused of treason against Nero and was forced to commit suicide by opening his veins.

5. Lucan’s influence extended into the Renaissance, where poets like Dante and Milton drew inspiration from his epic style.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lucan

1. “I sing of wars worse than civil, waged over the plains of Emathia, and of legality conferred on crime.”

2. “We are forced to fall back upon fatalism in the last resort.”

3. “Pity the burden of the great.”

4. “Fortune and love favor the brave.”

5. “Can it be that the mind is not infinite, that it can hold no more than it already holds?”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Lucan achieved considerable wealth and status during his lifetime, but exact figures are not documented. His highest net worth was derived from his works and his initial favor with Emperor Nero.