Macrobius

Macrobius and Eustachius

Macrobii scipionis saturnalorium ludguni paganum 1560

Macrobius

Macrobius, universe with the earth in the centre

Macrobius, climatic zones

Macrobius Ambrosius Theodosius was a Roman philosopher, scholar, and author, best known for his work Saturnalia, an encyclopedic celebration of Roman culture written in the early 5th century AD. His full name, as given by sources, indicates a person of significant status, possibly of Greek or Eastern origin, though much of his life remains a mystery, including the exact dates of his birth and death. Macrobius's contributions to literature, philosophy, and science, particularly through Saturnalia and his commentary on the Dream of Scipio from Cicero's De re publica, have made him an enduring figure in the study of the late Roman Empire and the transmission of classical knowledge to the Middle Ages.

Life

Very little is known about the life of Macrobius. He is thought to have lived during the late 4th and early 5th centuries AD, a time when the Roman Empire was undergoing significant political and cultural transformations. Some scholars suggest he was of Greek origin, while others propose he was born in one of the provinces of North Africa. His works suggest a deep familiarity with Roman law, literature, and philosophy, indicating a comprehensive education typical of the Roman elite. Macrobius's references to contemporary figures and events provide some clues to his lifetime, placing him in the reign of Emperor Honorius and possibly Theodosius II.

Works

Macrobius's most famous work, Saturnalia, is an extensive dialogue in seven books that covers a wide range of topics, including religion, philosophy, history, and literature, all set against the backdrop of the Roman festival of Saturnalia. It is a valuable source of information on ancient Roman society and its intellectual pursuits, as well as preserving excerpts from works that are otherwise lost. His other significant contribution is the Commentary on the Dream of Scipio, which explores themes of cosmology, the soul, and the afterlife, reflecting the Neoplatonic philosophy prevalent at the time.

Saturnalia

In Saturnalia, Macrobius creates a fictionalized account of discussions at a banquet held during the Saturnalia festival, where guests debate on various subjects, providing insights into Roman culture and society. The work is notable for its encyclopedic nature and for preserving the knowledge of earlier Roman and Greek authors. It has been a critical source for scholars studying the classical world and its intellectual traditions.

Commentary on the Dream of Scipio

The Commentary on the Dream of Scipio delves into the philosophical and cosmological implications of Cicero's Dream of Scipio. It reflects Macrobius's Neoplatonic views, discussing the structure of the universe, the immortality of the soul, and the concept of the afterlife. This work was influential in the Middle Ages, bridging classical philosophy with Christian thought.

Legacy

Macrobius's works were widely read and respected during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, contributing to the survival and transmission of classical knowledge. His synthesis of Neoplatonic philosophy with Roman cultural traditions provided a framework for later scholars and thinkers. Saturnalia, in particular, has been praised for its rich depiction of Roman life and thought, while his Commentary on the Dream of Scipio played a significant role in medieval cosmology and philosophy.