Juvenal

Juvenal (born around 55 CE – died around 140 CE) was a Roman poet, best known for his satirical works that critiqued the social, political, and moral issues of ancient Roman society. His full name was Decimus Iunius Iuvenalis, and he is one of the most famous writers of Roman satire.

Juvenal's most notable work is his collection of "Satires", a series of 16 poems in which he sharply critiques various aspects of Roman life. These satires expose the vices, hypocrisy, and corruption of Roman society, particularly targeting the elite classes, such as politicians, wealthy individuals, and women. His work is often noted for its sharp wit, sarcasm, and biting tone. Juvenal's satires also reflect his cynicism about Roman society's moral decay and his disdain for luxury, greed, and the decline of traditional Roman values.

Some of Juvenal's most famous lines come from his "Satire 10" (often referred to as the Satire of the Women), where he writes, "Quisque suos patimur manes," meaning "Each of us endures our own fate" (a line that touches on the universal struggle). Another well-known quote is "Panem et circenses," which means "Bread and circuses." This phrase critiques the superficial distractions (like free food and entertainment) used by Roman politicians to appease the masses, rather than addressing their true concerns.

Juvenal's works had a significant impact on both classical literature and later satirical writing. His style influenced writers throughout history, from the Renaissance to modern literature, with his critical eye on society's flaws continuing to resonate in various cultural contexts.