Biography
Lucretius
Read Lucretius’s biography and explore related books.
Read biography →Classical Reference Library
Lucretius Resources
Explore articles, videos, guides, and other resources related to Lucretius.
Resources
HISTORY OF SCIENCE
Ancient and Modern Science: Some Observations
Ian Johnston traces the changing understanding of science from ancient Greek natural philosophy through medieval cosmology to modern experimental science, exploring how the pursuit of knowledge shifted from contemplation of nature and its purposes toward prediction, control, and power.
Read resource →STUDENT’S GUIDE · EPICUREAN PHILOSOPHY & THE NATURAL WORLD
On the Nature of Things — A Student’s Guide
An accessible introduction to Lucretius’ On the Nature of Things, with an overview of its six books, explanations of important philosophical ideas, close-reading suggestions, discussion questions, and a classroom activity.
Read resource →CRITICAL ESSAY
Some Observations on Lucretius
Ian Johnston examines Lucretius’ On the Nature of Things, considering its scientific claims, its Epicurean vision of nature, and its enduring influence on Western thought. He argues that the poem’s greatest importance lies not in its science but in its powerful attempt to reshape how we understand nature and our place within it.
Read resource →TEACHER’S GUIDE · EPICUREAN PHILOSOPHY & THE NATURAL WORLD
Lucretius — On the Nature of Things: Teacher’s Guide
A guide to teaching Lucretius’ On the Nature of Things, exploring Epicurean philosophy, atoms and void, mortality, the natural world, and the poem’s distinctive use of poetry to communicate philosophical arguments.
Read resource →BOOK TRAILER
On the Nature of Things Book Trailer
A visual introduction to Lucretius’ philosophical poem about nature, atoms, reason, mortality, and the human soul.
Read resource →