Maecenas

noun

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Mae·ce·nas | \ mi-ˈsē-nəs

Definition of Maecenas

(Entry 1 of 2)

: a generous patron especially of literature or art

Maecenas

biographical name

Mae·ce·nas | \ mi-ˈsē-nəs

Definition of Maecenas (Entry 2 of 2)

Gaius circa 70–8 b.c. Roman statesman and patron of literature

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Did You Know?

Although the ancient Roman Gaius Maecenas was a well-known diplomat and counselor to Emperor Augustus, it was his munificent patronage of literature that immortalized his name as a word for "a generous patron." A writer himself, Maecenas knew of the power of poetry and viewed it as a way to glorify Augustus's regime. Among the poets he patronized were the celebrated Virgil and Horace - both of whom he befriended. Maecenas has also been credited with encouraging both writers to focus more on topics of public interest, such as affairs of state.