The Satyricon — Complete by Petronius Arbiter

The Satyricon, attributed to Petronius Arbiter and written in the 1st century CE, is one of the earliest and most intriguing examples of Roman prose fiction. This fragmentary, satirical novel follows the misadventures of the narrator Encolpius and his companions as they wander through a decadent Roman world filled with feasts, scandals, and absurdities. Blending elements of adventure, social satire, and bawdy comedy, The Satyricon offers a vivid, irreverent portrait of Roman society at its most extravagant and corrupt. Rich in character sketches and sharp wit, it remains a fascinating glimpse into ancient life and a milestone in literary history.