Lucretius, Love, and Epicureanism

Ancient Philosophy 2026

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Authors: Alex R Gillham
DOI: 10.5840/ancientphil202646112
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Lucretius argues at length against love in De Rerum Natura (DRN) iv. Many scholars take Lucretius’ condemnation of love to show that love was impermissible among Epicureans. I argue here that Lucretius’ arguments do not show that love is forbidden on Epicurean grounds. Lucretius’ arguments require controversial presuppositions about the nature and effects of love that the Epicurean is free or has reasons to reject.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Classical Philosophy and Thought Classical Antiquity Studies Philosophical Ethics and Theory

Publication details

Journal / source
Ancient Philosophy
Volume
46
Issue
1
Pages
229–249
Publication date
1 January 2026