Satire 12 Summary

Juvenal is celebrating for an occasion that is much happier than his birthday. He tells Corvinus that he is sacrificing to the gods in thanks for his friend's safe return. Catullus, Juvenal's friend, just returned from a stormy trip, and his fate resembles that of the plaques in the temple. The ship begins to sink, and the captain does not know what to do. Catullus throws his belongings overboard to lessen the ship's weight; Juvenal praises this action since it is rare for someone to value his life over his possessions. Because the ship is still sinking, the captain cuts down the mast, trusting the winds. Luckily, Fate smiles, the sea calms, and the ship enters the harbor at Ostia in safety. The ship's crew takes great pleasure in recounting their adventures. Juvenal orders the sacrifices and the altars to be prepared. He...