* No Direct Statements: Horace, the Roman poet, did not write explicitly about slavery. His work focuses on themes like love, nature, and morality.
* Context of the Times: Slavery was a deeply embedded part of Roman society during Horace's lifetime (65-8 BC). Most Romans, even those who might have had moral qualms about slavery, would have seen it as a necessary part of their world.
* Interpretations: Some scholars have argued that Horace's poetry implicitly reflects a negative view of slavery. For example, they point to lines that express sympathy for the suffering of slaves. Others argue that his work is simply a reflection of his time and that he doesn't actively endorse or oppose the institution.
Possible Inferences:
* Humanity: Horace's poetry often emphasizes the shared humanity of people, regardless of social status. This could be interpreted as an implicit rejection of the dehumanization inherent in slavery.
* Social Justice: While not directly addressing slavery, his poems sometimes explore themes of justice and fairness. This may suggest a broader sense of moral concern that could encompass the treatment of slaves.
* Irony: Horace's satirical style might have been used to criticize the hypocrisy of Roman society, which included the simultaneous acceptance of slavery and the pursuit of virtue.
Conclusion:
Without explicit statements from Horace, we can only speculate about his views on slavery. His poetry, however, offers glimpses into his values and worldviews, which may provide some insight into his potential opinions. Ultimately, it's up to the individual reader to interpret the nuances of his work and consider the context of his time.