and deserted regions, far from men's habitations, may be seen --a feeling certainly quite different from that feeling for the beautiful in Nature which expressed itself by the word "amoenitas." On the other hand, mountain regions are twice spoken of as regions to be dreaded or feared --5.41 and 5.200. There is then to be found in Lucretius' poem, evidence of a strong deep feeling for the grandeur mystery and majesty of Nature in general, as the guiding power of the Universe. Depending largely upon this, there is a keen delight in the manifold vigorous life pervading all Nature, and the active forces which animate it. The poem, however, shows an intimate knowledge of the phenomena of every department of Nature, gained for the most part from actual experience and observation, and expressed aften in such a way that an artistic appreciation must be assumed for the scenes that are represented. On the other hand, Lucretius does not look upon Nature from the purely subjective standpoint which is so frequent among the poets of modern times. He cannot be called, as Virgil has been, a"land scape painter.' He shows little appreciation for color, still less of the effects of light upon the landscape or its details. He is well acquainted with mountain regions, but shows only slight traces of that passion for their wildness, that is characteristic of modern times. Approved Dept. of Latin George L. Hendrickson J. W. Steams. |