Greek Epigram in the Roman Empire

When we say 'epigram', we mean 'Martial'. After Martial, a Roman poet of the first century AD, epigram would always mean satirical epigram: a short, funny poem with a sting in its tail. But Martial was an imitator. He copied and adapted the real innovators. This book aims to uncover a forgotten world of wicked puns and violent slapstick.