Ancient Pergamon
The ancient Romans realized the power of science and its importance. Gaius Petronius in one of his works (Banquet of Trimalchio) praises the power of knowledge in following way:
Believe what your daddy says, Primigenius, I din into his ears every day, whenever you learn a thing, it’s yours. Look at Phileros the attorney; he’d not be keeping the wolf from the door now if he hadn’t studied. It’s not long since he had to carry his wares on his back and peddle them, but he can put up a front with Norbanus himself now! Learning’s a fine thing, and a trade won’t starve.
– Petronius, Banquet of Trimalchio, II.46
Despite the fact that the piece is considered satirical, the message is absolutely essential.
Sources
- Gaius Petronius, The Banquet of Trimalchio
