Martial (Marcus Valerius Martialis)

Marcus Valerius Martialis, known as Martial, was an ancient Roman poet famous for his witty and sharp epigrams—short, clever poems that often comment humorously on society, love, and daily life. Active around the late 1st and early 2nd centuries AD, his work provides a vivid snapshot of Roman urban life and individual quirks. Martial’s concise, impactful style influenced satire and poetry, making him a notable figure for his ability to blend humor with keen social observation in a compact form.