This volume, published in 1968, was the first critical study of Persius in English. This new edition offers a close reading within the framework of criticism which led classics in the 1960s. Cynthia Dessen emphasizes the distinction between persona and poet and argues that Persius's satires, far from being "difficult" are unified and comprehensible through their controlling metaphors, their dominant imagery and word-repetition.

Foreword by: Kenneth J. Reckford