Introduction to Silius Italicus and the Punica

In a much-needed comprehensive introduction to Silius Italicus and the <i>Punica</i> Jacobs offers an invitation to students and scholars alike to read the epic as a thoughtful and considered treatment of Rome's past present and (perilous) future. The Second Punic War marked a turning point in world history: Rome faced her greatest external threat in the famous Carthaginian general Hannibal and her victory led to her domination of the Mediterranean. Lingering memories of the conflict played a pivotal role in the city's transition from Republic to Empire from foreign war to civil war. Looking back after the events of AD 69 the senator-poet Silius Italicus identified the Second Punic War as <i>the</i> turning point in Rome's history through his <i>Punica</i>.<br/> <br/> After introductory chapters for those new to the poet and his poem Jacobs' close reading of the epic narrative guides students and scholars alike through the <i>Punica</i>. All Greek and Latin passages are translated to ensure accessibility for those reading in English. Far more than simply a retelling of Rome's greatest triumph the <i>Punica</i> challenges its reader to make sense of the Second Punic War in light of its full impact on the subsequent course of the city's history.