Inspirational Quotes by Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus) (Scottish Poet)

Marcus Annaeus Lucanus (39–65 CE,) known as Lucan, was a Roman poet celebrated for his vivid and dramatic depictions of historical events. Despite his brief career, his work had a significant impact on later writers, resonating with Renaissance humanists and Romantic poets for its themes of liberty, tyranny, and the impermanence of power.

Born in Corduba (modern-day Córdoba, Spain) to a wealthy and influential family, Lucan was the nephew of philosopher and statesman Seneca the Younger. His upbringing in a literary environment nurtured his early intellectual brilliance and earned him recognition in Rome.

His most famous work, Pharsalia (also known as De Bello Civili or On the Civil War,) is an epic poem written between 61 and 65 CE. Left unfinished at his death, Pharsalia narrates the conflict between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great during the Roman Civil War. Unlike traditional epics, it rejects divine intervention, focusing instead on human ambition, political chaos, and the consequences of civil strife. His vivid descriptions, sharp rhetoric, and philosophical depth make Pharsalia a unique and influential contribution to Roman literature.

Lucan rose to prominence under Emperor Nero but fell out of favor due to his critiques of autocracy. In 65 CE, he was implicated in the Pisonian Conspiracy and was forced to take his own life at the age of 25.

More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)

How great are the dangers I face to win a good name in Athens.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Fame

Remember upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Unity, Teamwork

Boldness is a mask for fear, however great.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Boldness, Bravery

An idle life always produces varied inclinations.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Idleness, One liners

Avoid delays: procrastination always does harm.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Procrastination

I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Teaching

The prosperous man is never sure that he is loved for himself.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Success & Failure, Prosperity

If I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Self-Esteem, Self Respect

I would rather excel others in the knowledge of what is excellent than in the extent of my powers and dominion.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Excellence

Neither side is guiltless if its adversary is appointed judge.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Guilt

Those who guilt stains it equals.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Guilt, One liners

There is nothing impossible to him who will try.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Determination

I am dying from the treatment of too many physicians.
—Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus)
Topics: Medicine

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Inspirational Quotes by Lucan (Marcus Annaeus Lucanus) (Scottish Poet)

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