Pliny the Younger (Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secunous) A.D. 62-113

[Mentioned in The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 150]

Pliny's reputation today rests upon his letters, which picture Roman life under three emperors and illumine his own character and activities. The death of his father, when Pliny was a child, did not curtail his education. The family was rich, and he had great advantages.

With the prestige of having been named ward and heir of his uncle, the famous naturalist, Pliny the Elder, Pliny entered his career as an advocate in Rome. He pleaded important cases in the courts and senate, served as military tribune in Syria, as quaestor, tribune, and praetor in Rome, and finally was governor in the provinces of Pontus and Bithynia.

The most enthusiastic bibliophile of his period, Pliny gave a library to Como, his birthplace. He was also a student of literature and a gentleman farmer. His descriptions of Lake Como and his carefully planned villas show his love of beauty, while comments to intimate friends reveal his amiable, generous character and his humanity toward his slaves.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Signs of the Times
August 10, 1957
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit