Medulla Poetarum Romanorum Or, the Most Beautiful and Instructive Passages of the Roman Poets. Being a Collection, (Disposed under proper Heads,) Of such Descriptions, Allusions, Comparisons, Characters, and Sentiments, as may best serve to shew the Religion, Learning, Politicks, Arts, Customs, Opinions, Manners, and Circumstances of the Antients. With Translations of the same in English Verse. By Mr. Henry Baker |
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 | Medulla Poetarum Romanorum |  |
Presumption.
Bold Man, that all Things dares essay,Thro' Crimes forbidden makes his Way:
Bold Japhet's Race, of Humankind
The Curse, celestial Fire purloin'd:
The Fire celestial ill-obtain'd,
Strait, the wan ling'ring Pthisis reign'd;
Came Fevers, with pestif'rous Breath,
A spotted Legion! and slow Death,
Far off before, tho' sure decreed,
Catch'd up his Steps, and march'd with Speed:
Presumptuous Dædalus! he try'd
Thro' Air, with Wings to Man deny'd,
To journey: Rash Alcmena's Son
The Barriers broke of Acheron:
To Deeds stupendous Mortals rise:
We e'en in Folly brave the Skies:
Nor suffer Jove, thro' stubborn Pride,
To lay th' uplifted Bolt aside.—
| Medulla Poetarum Romanorum | |