The Georgics (Latin)   By: Unknown (70 BC - 19 BC)

The Georgics is a beautifully written poem that delves into the world of farming and agriculture, offering practical advice and insight into rural life in ancient Rome. The author's use of vivid imagery and descriptive language brings this ancient subject matter to life, making it both educational and engaging for readers. The four books cover a range of topics, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for livestock, all while emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and respect for the land. Overall, The Georgics is a timeless classic that offers a glimpse into the agricultural practices of the past and serves as a reminder of the importance of nature and the earth.

First Page:

Quid faciat laetas segetes, quo sidere terram vertere, Maecenas, ulmisque adiungere vitis conveniat, quae cura boum, qui cultus habendo sit pecori, apibus quanta experientia parcis, hinc canere incipiam. Vos, o clarissima mundi lumina, labentem caelo quae ducitis annum, Liber et alma Ceres, vestro si munere tellus Chaoniam pingui glandem mutavit arista, poculaque inventis Acheloia miscuit uvis; et vos, agrestum praesentia numina, Fauni, ferte simul Faunique pedem Dryadesque puellae: Munera vestra cano. Tuque o, cui prima frementem fudit equum magno tellus percussa tridenti, Neptune; et cultor nemorum, cui pinguia Ceae ter centum nivei tondent dumeta iuvenci; ipse nemus linquens patrium saltusque Lycaei, Pan, ovium custos, tua si tibi Maenala curae, adsis, o Tegeaee, favens, oleaeque Minerva inventrix, uncique puer monstrator aratri, et teneram ab radice ferens, Silvane, cupressum, dique deaeque omnes, studium quibus arva tueri, quique novas alitis non ullo semine fruges, quique satis largum caelo demittitis imbrem; tuque adeo, quem mox quae sint habitura deorum concilia, incertum est, urbisne invisere, Caesar, terrarumque velis curam et te maximus orbis auctorem frugum tempestatumque... Continue reading book >>