The Satyricon The Morazla Scrolls Author:Petronius Arbiter, Ellery David Nest Translated by Ellery David Nest, The Morazla Scrolls appear to be the lost episodes that immediately precede the extant chapters written by Petronius in the first century during Nero's reign. Although much controversy surrounds this work, The Morazla Scrolls provides an entertaining yet somewhat perverse entree into the literature of ancient Ro... more »me. Be forewarned of the ribald sexual antics by this group of disreputable characters. As Petronius never shies from explicit, albeit literate exposition, some readers may find offense. Using the lead character Encolpius as his foil, Petronius expounds on myriad topics, including the Emperor's bathroom habits, the fixed gladiatorial contests, the rampant abuse of government by the powerful and, of course, the sexual proclivities of the privileged. Though the subjects may seem serious and rather dry, Petronius juggles these topics, and more, adroitly and with much scathing humor, providing the reader with a wild ride through the underworld of Roman society.« less