Philodemus on poems book one aesthetic works illustrated edition by richard janko translator philodemus of garada several previously unknown poetic theories this is the first volume in a series of new texts and translations of the aesthetic works of philodemus . Jankos work on on poems 2 should afford opportunity for fuller exploration of philodemus aesthetic theory janko and previous reviewers make much of a citation of democritus reconstructed in book 4 fr 10 250 51. The on poems by philodemus c110 35 bc the epicurean philosopher and poet who taught virgil and influenced horace is our main source for hellenistic literary theory in book 1 philodemus summarizes a survey of previously unknown poetic and aesthetic theories. The on poems by philodemus c 110 35 bc the epicurean philosopher and poet who taught vergil and influenced horace is our main source for hellenistic literary theory in book 1 philodemus summarizes a survey of previously unknown poetic and aesthetic theories