About the author
Marcus Manilius (fl. 1st century AD) was a Roman poet, astrologer, and author of a poem in five books called Astronomica. == The Astronomica == The author of Astronomica is neither quoted nor mentioned by any ancient writer. Even his name is uncertain, but it was probably Marcus Manilius; in the earlier books the author is anonymous, the later give Manilius, Manlius, Mallius. The poem itself implies that the writer lived under Augustus or Tiberius, and that he was a citizen of and resident in Rome, suggesting that Manilius wrote the work during the 20s CE. According to the early 18th-century classicist Richard Bentley, he was an Asiatic Greek; according to the 19th-century classicist Fridericus Jacob, an African. It has been suggested that he might hailed from Roman Syria, or be a Roman senator. His work is one of great learning; he had studied his subject in the best writers, and generally represents the most advanced views of the ancients on astronomy (or rather astrology). Manilius frequently imitates Lucretius. Although his diction presents some peculiarities, the style is metrically correct, and he could write neat and witty hexameters.
📖 Where to start with Marcus Manilius
💬 What our editors say about Marcus Manilius's books
“This edition presents Marcus Manilius's monumental Astronomicon through Alfred Edward Housman’s acclaimed translation, offering a remarkable poetic journey through the cosmos from ancient Rome. It is essential for those…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus
“This volume is a scholarly treasure for those interested in the intersection of classical literature and esoteric thought. However, it does not suit readers seeking modern, practical astrological advice or light entertainment.…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus
“This edition offers a robust entry into Manilius's classical perspective on the heavens. However, readers expecting modern astrological advice or practical horoscope guidance will likely feel disconnected, as the text is strictly…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus
📋 Editions by Marcus Manilius in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2023 | Legare Street Press | 102 | 9781022151543 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2023 | Legare Street Press | 102 | 9781020909177 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2022 | Legare Street Press | 164 | 9781015924413 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2022 | Legare Street Press | 164 | 9781015920354 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2011 | Cambridge University Press | 108 | 9781108170635 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2011 | Cambridge University Press | 162 | 9781108127585 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2011 | Cambridge University Press | 186 | 9781108040471 |
| Astronomicon Manilius, Marcus | 2009 | BiblioLife | 104 | 9781115428514 |
