Walter Pater 
Marius the Epicurean 
Philosophical Novel

In Walter Pater’s ‘Marius the Epicurean’, readers are immersed in a compelling tale of a young Roman man named Marius who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. The novel is written in a form similar to a philosophical dialogue, allowing Pater to explore complex ideas such as the pursuit of beauty, the tension between aestheticism and asceticism, and the nature of faith. Pater’s lyrical prose and attention to detail create a vivid depiction of ancient Rome, making the reader feel as though they are walking the streets alongside Marius. ‘Marius the Epicurean’ is a literary milestone that bridges the gap between philosophy and fiction, offering profound insights into the human experience.

Sobre o autor

Walter Horatio Pater (1839–1894) was a noteworthy English essayist, literary and art critic, and fiction writer who played a significant role in the Aesthetic Movement of the 19th century. Best known for his seminal work ‘Studies in the History of the Renaissance’ (1873), Pater’s examination of the Renaissance period combined rigorous scholarship with an elegant prose style that encouraged readers to appreciate art for its own sake, an approach that encapsulated the Aesthetic credo of ‘art for art’s sake.’ His novel ‘Marius the Epicurean’ published in 1885, further solidified his reputation. This philosophical narrative follows the intellectual journey of its protagonist, Marius, as he explores the sensory experiences of life and engages with various philosophical schools in the Roman Empire. Pater’s narrative technique in the novel, characterized by a rich, descriptive language and introspective focus, offers readers a nuanced exploration of Epicurean philosophy and the human condition. Pater’s works have been influential in literary circles, resonating with and influencing figures such as Oscar Wilde. Pater’s emphasis on individualism and subjective experience was a precursor to the aestheticism and modernist literary movements that followed. His exploration of hedonism, beauty, and the fleeting nature of experiences continue to stimulate scholarly discourse and literary analysis.