Sillius Isn’t Silly
Sillius Italicus was a Latin epic poet. He was born in Italica in the Roman province of Hispania in Spain. He was famous for his professions: forensic orator, politician, consul. He was mentioned by Tacitus as having been one of two witnesses who attended the conferences of Vitellius and Flavius Sabinus.
His life after consulship was narrated by Pliny. According to Pliny, Sillius performed wisely and courteously as the friend of the rich and cruel Vitellius. He had won a repute by his proconsulship of Asia. Because he had maintained dignified and contented, thus, avoiding power and cruelty, he outlived the Flavian dynasty. He kept himself to a private station after his governorship of Asia.
Sillius was a remarkable person in literature and art. He was a passionate collector, too. He worshipped Cicero and Virgil, both famous Roman legends. He living was also inspired by his two great heroes: Epictetus (who described him to be the most philosophic spirit among the Romans of his time) and Cornutus (who dedicated a commentary to Sillius.)
