latin literature

when was catullus born?

born in 87/ 84bc and died in 55bc

who is catullus' father?

an equestrian - has a villa on lake garda which catullus inherits.

who is catullus' brother?

dies an early death near troy - loyal - performed rites at brothers tomb

what is the circle of poets catullus belonged to?

poetae novi (new poets)

what does catullus frequently complain about?

not having a lot of money

what techniques does catullus often include in his work?

use of diminutives, experimental vocabulary and spontaneity

what is spontaneity?

the quality of being natural, rather than planning in advance.

what is a diminutive?

words that are used to express something is small.

effects of using diminutives

makes it seem cute

makes it seem unimportant

shows affection

creates sympathy

what is the name of catullus' 50th poem

"poetry and friendship"

who is "poetry and friendship" dedicated to?

Licinius Calvus

who is Licinius Calvus?

another of the new poets

Catullus' best friend (as remarked by Ovid)

also appears in poems 14, 53 and 96