Horace (65-8 B.C.) is one of the most important and brilliant poets of the Augustan Age of Latin literature whose influence on European literature is unparalleled. Steeped in allusion to contemporary affairs, Horace's verse is best read in terms of his changing relationship to the public sphere. While the Odes are subtle and allusive, the Epodes are robust and coarse in their celebrations of sex and tirades against political leaders. This edition also includes the Secular Hymn and Suetonius's "Life of Horace." About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more. David West is Professor Emeritus of Latin at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and Leverhulme Emeritus Fellow. Quintus Horatius Flaccus (Horace) was born in late 65 BC at Venusia in Apulia. He served on the staff of Brutus' army until the defeat at Philippi in 42 BC. On returning to Rome he found his father dead and his property confiscated but obtained a secretarial post in the treasury. His poetry impressed Virgil, who introduced him to the great patron Maecenas in 38 BC. From now on Horace had no financial worries and moved freely among the leading poets and statesmen of Rome; after Virgil's death in 19 BC he was virtually Poet Laureate.