Manuscript Leaf from Livy: Scipio's Siege of Carthago Nova
Manuscript Leaf from Livy: Scipio's Siege of Carthago Nova
Place of OriginItaly
DateMid 15th century
Dimensions8 3/4 x 6 3/16 in.
ClassificationManuscripts
Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number
1953.129MM
Not on View
DescriptionLatin text; Humanistic script
Label TextThis manuscript leaf preserves a pivotal passage from Titus Livius's monumental Ab Urbe Condita (History of Rome), specifically Book 26, chapters 42-44. The text narrates one of the most celebrated military operations of the Second Punic War: the 25-year-old Publius Cornelius Scipio's lightning conquest of Carthago Nova (modern Cartagena, Spain) in 209 BCE. The manuscript contains Livy's detailed account of Scipio's strategic decision-making, his famous speech to the troops, and the dramatic assault on the heavily fortified Carthaginian stronghold. This episode marked a turning point in Rome's reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula and established Scipio's reputation as one of Rome's greatest generals—the man who would ultimately defeat Hannibal at Zama.
Mid 15th century
Mid 15th century
Mid 15th century
Mid 15th century
Mid 15th century
early 12th century
middle 12th century
Late 15th century
15th century (late)
Mid 15th century
Late 15th century
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