Lecture Guide for Lucretius

Book 2

How does one get rid of superstitious fears?

Why does Lucretius believe that the universe was not made for humans by gods?

What accounts for differences (in taste, smell, texture, etc.) in objects?

Book 3

Why does Lucretius think that evil results from humans’ fear of death?

Why should death be nothing to us?

Mythological figures:

Tantalus

Tityos

Sisyphus

Danaids

Figures represent what humans experience in life, according to Lucretius.