The Millionaires Dinner Party
Wishlist
An adaptation of the Cena Trimalchionis' of Petronius by M. G. Balme.
Book Summary
The Millionaires Dinner Party by MG Balme is a lively adaptation of Petronius' Cena Trimalchionis, designed for Latin students. It presents the famous banquet scene in simplified prose with vocabulary and notes, making the satire accessible to intermediate learners. This edition helps students build reading confidence while enjoying a classic Roman text.
This book is not available
Store  |
Condition |
Deals & Coupons | Price |
Est. Shipping |
Total |
Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry we could not find any result for “9780199120253” | ||||||
About The Millionaires Dinner Party
The Millionaires Dinner Party is MG Balme's adaptation of the Cena Trimalchionis from Petronius' Satyricon, tailored for Latin learners. The original episode follows the ostentatious freedman Trimalchio as he hosts an absurdly lavish dinner, satirizing Roman excess and social climbing. Balme simplifies the Latin, adds facing vocabulary, and provides explanatory notes so that students can read the text with minimal dictionary use. The story's humor and vivid characters—Trimalchio, his guests, and the chaotic courses—keep learners engaged while reinforcing grammar and vocabulary. This edition is ideal for intermediate Latin readers transitioning from textbook exercises to authentic literature. It also offers cultural background on Roman dining, slavery, and social mobility, making it a valuable classroom resource for both comprehension and discussion.
Who should read The Millionaires Dinner Party?
This book is ideal for intermediate Latin students who have mastered basic grammar and vocabulary and are ready to read continuous prose. It suits high school or college learners using a reading method, as well as self-studiers seeking an accessible introduction to Petronius. Teachers will find it a useful classroom text for exploring Roman satire and society. General readers with some Latin will enjoy the lively story and cultural notes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Simplified Latin makes the original satire accessible to intermediate learners
- ✓ Facing vocabulary and notes reduce dictionary dependence and build reading fluency
- ✓ Engaging story with humor and vivid characters motivates students
- ✓ Provides cultural background on Roman dining and society
- ✓ Ideal length and difficulty for classroom or self-study
Cons
- ✗ Not suitable for absolute beginners due to continuous Latin text
- ✗ Simplification may lose some stylistic richness of Petronius' original
- ✗ Limited to one episode, so it does not cover the full Satyricon
- ✗ Some editions may lack comprehensive grammatical appendix
- ✗ Teachers may need to supplement with additional exercises
Similar books
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cena Trimalchionis?
It is a famous episode from Petronius' Satyricon describing a lavish and absurd dinner hosted by the freedman Trimalchio, satirizing Roman excess.
Is this book suitable for beginners?
No, it is designed for intermediate Latin students who have completed basic grammar and can read connected prose.
Does it include vocabulary and notes?
Yes, this adaptation provides facing vocabulary and explanatory notes to help students read with minimal dictionary use.
Is this the full Satyricon?
No, it is an adaptation of one episode, the Cena Trimalchionis, not the complete work.
Can it be used for self-study?
Yes, the simplified text and notes make it suitable for independent learners with some Latin background.
At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.
As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.