MAR: Lesson - Recap

Martial: Epigrams - Recap

Before continuing, take a moment to reflect on what you have learned and read so far. At this point, you have read many of Martial's poem, both in English and in Latin. The style of the epigram should be one you can give serious thought to analyzing: considering how it was used, what the aim of the style was and how it has influenced poetry.

Can you think of any modern examples of the epigram? What form(s) do we use now to criticize the powerful, to mock the well-off? Are there particular art forms that are friendlier to such criticism than others - and even some that focus on exclusively on this type of wit?