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This paper examines usage of the noun forms nugae, lusus/ludus and the verb ludere in reference to poetry by Roman poets. First, the usage of the terms by Roman poets preceding and contemporary to Martial is considered. Then Martial's own usage is considered. A comparison and contrast between Martial's and the other Roman poets' usage of these major and representative literary terms reveal the nature of Martial's own medium, epigram, and his place and impact within the literary tradition. Sometimes the paper looks at the usage of these terms in reference to poetry by prose authors such as Pliny the Younger, Quintilian, Tacitus and Suetonius, and specifically when the context was literary-critical. At the outset a few notes about the terms under consideration might be helpful. The terms nugae and ludus/lusus or the verb forms of ludere can be practically synonymous when used in reference to poetry. This is apparent from Horace’s Epistle 2.2.141-43 where nugae and ludus are both used of youthful poetry, and Horace's Satire 2.1.73 where nugari and ludere are used almost synonymously (though not necessarily of poetry) ( ) There are, however, as will be seen, shades of meaning peculiar to each term. It might be helpful to begin with the basic definitions of the terms. Nugae is "something that is worthless" or "rubbish"; it also has the meaning of "a trifle" or "something not serious" in particular reference to literary work( ) The verb ludere has a basic meaning of "to play," "jest," "joke," "ridicule," "spend time idly" or "frivolously," and "to sport amorously." ( ) Like nugae, ludere also has a special sense in a literary context, as will be seen in the analysis that follows.
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