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This is an English translation of two letters written by Pliny the Younger to the Roman historian Tacitus. The first letter describes the journey of his uncle Pliny the Elder, where he died. The second describes his own observations in the town across the bay. The translation may not be a completely literal translation, but it is in a modern, modern (and therefore easy to read) form. This letter is believed to be the first ever detailed description of a volcanic eruption. The eruption column with an umbrella-shaped cloud that can be seen on other volcanoes was named after him (Plinian eruption column).
This translation gives the eruption date as August. There are other sources that indicate the date of the October eruption (originating from the fact that fresh olives were found in some houses in Pompeii).
It is interesting to note that Pliny named the city of Herculaneum (Ercolano). ) is never mentioned. Its existence was unknown in Pompeii and Pompeii until the end of his 16th century. Excavation he began in 1748. The excavated city (along with Herculaneum and several other cities) is of great historical importance. People hurriedly fled, leaving behind valuables and household items. Some buildings have preserved paintings, mosaics, and sculptures, and graffiti (announcements, sales notices, and personal statements) can still be seen on the walls of the streets. Sir William Hamilton, the British ambassador to the court of Naples, witnessed the eruption between 1766 and his 1794. His description of the eruption and the geology of the area is considered to be the first true volcanological report. He was also present at the excavations at Pompeii.
Pliny the Younger wrote two letters to Tacitus, detailing his uncle Pliny the Elder's journey where he died during a volcanic eruption. The letters provide the first detailed description of a volcanic eruption and led to the naming of the Plinian eruption column. The eruption date is disputed due to conflicting sources indicating August or October. Pliny's mention of the city of Herculaneum is noteworthy, as its existence was not known until the 16th century. The excavated cities, including Pompeii and Herculaneum, provide valuable historical insights with preserved artifacts and graffiti from the time. Sir William Hamilton's observations during the eruption and subsequent excavations are considered the first true volcanological report.
Questions:
- How did Pliny the Younger's firsthand account of the eruption influence future understanding of volcanic activity?
- What significance does Sir William Hamilton's contribution have in the field of volcanology?
- How has the excavation of Pompeii and Herculaneum enhanced our understanding of ancient Roman civilization?