"Horace" by Sir Theodore Martin is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life and works of the renowned Roman poet, Horace. In this meticulously researched work, Martin provides readers with a vivid portrait of Horace's life, achievements, and enduring influence on literature. As a biographical work, "Horace" falls within the genre of literary biography, offering readers an insightful exploration of the poet's personal and professional journey. Through Martin's skillful narration, readers are transported to ancient Rome, where they witness Horace's rise from humble origins to literary fame and prominence. Martin's thorough examination of Horace's works, including his odes, satires, and epistles, offers readers a deeper understanding of the poet's artistic vision and thematic preoccupations. Additionally, Martin contextualizes Horace's life within the broader socio-political landscape of ancient Rome, shedding light on the historical events and cultural milieu that shaped his writing. With its engaging prose and scholarly approach, "Horace" serves as an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts of classical literature. Martin's meticulous research and insightful analysis make this biography a definitive account of one of antiquity's most celebrated poets, ensuring that Horace's legacy continues to be appreciated and studied for generations to come.
Sir Theodore Martin was a Scottish biographer, poet, and translator. Martin was born in Edinburgh, the only son of Mary, the daughter of James Reid, a Fraserburgh shipowner, and solicitor James Martin. He was educated at the Royal High School and studied at the University of Edinburgh from 1830-1833. He worked as an attorney in Edinburgh from 1840 to 1845 before moving to London to lead the firm of Martin and Leslie, parliamentary agents. His first contribution to literature was the amusing Bon Gaultier Ballads, which he co-wrote with W.E. Aytoun and remained popular for a long time; first published in a journal, they were published in book format in 1845. Martin's translated works include Dante's Vita Nuova, Oehlenschläger's Correggio and Aladdin, Heinrich Heine's Poems and Ballads, Friedrich Schiller's Wilhelm Tell, and Hertz's King Rene's Daughter. He also wrote a full translation of Horace's Life and one of Catullus. He is arguably best known for his Life of the Prince Consort (1874-80), which Queen Victoria entrusted to him to write and which earned him her lifetime friendship. He also wrote biographies of Professor Aytoun and Lord Lyndhurst.
