Gaius Plinius Secundus - 23, 79; commonly known as Pliny the Elder, was a Roman author, naturalist, and naval officer who lived during the first century After Christ. His most famous work, the "Naturalis Historia" (Natural History), is an encyclopedic text that became one of the largest compendia of knowledge in the ancient world.
Background
Born in Novum Comum (modern-day Como, Italy) in 23 A.C. Served as a military officer, administrator, and scholar. Died in 79 A.C. during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, while attempting a rescue mission near Pompeii.
Career
Held various positions, including procurator and admiral of the Roman fleet. Despite his public duties, he was a prolific writer, reportedly working late into the night.
Naturalis Historia
This monumental work is one of the few Roman encyclopedias to survive. It provides an overview of the knowledge of the time, covering a vast array of topics.
Structure:
The "Naturalis Historia" consists of 37 books:
Books 1–6: Geography and anthropology.
Books 7–11: Zoology, including human anatomy, animals, and insects.
Books 12–19: Botany, agriculture, and horticulture.
Books 20–27: Medicinal plants.
Books 28–32: Medicinal use of animals and marine life.
Books 33–37: Mineralogy, including precious stones, metals, and art.
Features
First Encyclopedia: Often considered one of the first encyclopedias, as it attempts to compile all knowledge of the natural world.
