'Fasti' Summary

Ovid's Fasti is a six-book poem dedicated to the Roman calendar and its associated festivals. The poem takes readers through the first six months of the Roman year, exploring the origins and significance of each month's holidays and customs. Ovid weaves together mythological narratives, historical accounts, and religious beliefs to explain the origins of various traditions and the gods and goddesses associated with them. For example, he recounts the story of Vesta, the goddess of hearth and home, to explain the origins of the Vestal Virgins. He also explores the stories of Juno, Jupiter, Mars, and other deities, connecting their myths to specific days and festivals. While unfinished, Fasti is a captivating exploration of ancient Roman culture and its rich tapestry of beliefs and practices. Through Ovid's poetic voice, readers gain a deeper understanding of the social, religious, and cultural fabric of ancient Rome.