El Arte De Amar

A didactic poem written in the early 1st century AD. This work serves as a guide to romantic relationships, giving advice on how to attract, win, and maintain love, while exploring the dynamics between men and women. The text addresses a contemporary audience familiar with Roman society, specifically regarding courtship practices. At the start of the poem, the translator introduces Ovid and his background, emphasizing the significance of his work amidst the cultural decay in Rome. He describes the three-part structure of the poem, where the first part provides strategies for finding and winning a partner, emphasizing the importance of location and approach. The opening instills a sense of urgency in the pursuit of love, outlining various settings such as theaters and public places where love can be sought, and recommending clever tactics to capture a woman's heart while navigating the societal norms of Ovid's time. The tone sets the stage for a blend of practical advice with a poetic flair, promising an engaging exploration of love's complexities.