Cornelius Nepos
- Born:
- c. 100 BCE, Hostilia, Cisalpine Gaul (present-day Italy)
- Died:
- c. 25 BCE
- Nationality:
- Roman
- Profession(s):
- Historian, Biographer, Grammarian
Early Life and Education
- Details of Nepos' early life are scarce.
- He was likely educated in northern Italy and may have moved to Rome later in life.
- His family was likely of equestrian rank.
Career and Major Achievements
- Cornelius Nepos was a contemporary of Cicero, Catullus, and Atticus, indicating his involvement in Roman literary circles.
- His primary contribution to literature lies in his biographical works.
- He is considered one of the earliest practitioners of biography in Roman literature. His work is important in understanding cornelius nepos and ancient political biography.
- Nepos focused on presenting the lives of prominent figures, both Roman and foreign.
Notable Works
- De Viris Illustribus ("On Illustrious Men"): A collection of biographies, organized by category (e.g., kings, generals, historians, poets). Only portions of this survive.
- Excellentium Imperatorum Vitae ("Lives of the Outstanding Generals"): A sub-section of De Viris Illustribus, focusing on military leaders. The only surviving book of the series.
- Vita Attici ("Life of Atticus"): A biography of Cicero's friend, Titus Pomponius Atticus, which provides valuable insights into Roman society and intellectual life.
- Fragments of other works, including Chronica (a history) and poems, are known.
Legacy and Impact
Cornelius Nepos' biographical work provides valuable insights into the lives of significant figures of the ancient world. While not always critically rigorous, his writings offer a glimpse into the values and perspectives of Roman society. He influenced later biographers and historians.