Lucretius On The Order Of Things Analysis

Analysis of Lucretius: On the Order of Things

Introduction:

Lucretius, the author of, “On the Order of Things” argues for the concept and ideology of an inevitable death, in that individuals should accept their fate instead of providing resistance. Lucretius commences by claiming that Atomism is the core reason of the existence of the universe, thereby reasoning that everything that currently exists in the world today is a product of the collision of atoms. Since human beings are comprised of these, there is no possibility that any part of them can survive after death, and thus humans should not fear death. He also delves into the Epicurean belief that individuals crave a life devoid of pain, and abundant with pleasure. Lucretius states that individuals should strive to live in complete balance with nature by living a simplistic life by removing

Lucretius states that some people are driven to such pleasures, such as the lust of wealth and status, that they are willing to spill another’s blood to attain it. Pleasures such as these evoke negative actions and cause corrupt individuals to become victim to numerous crimes and eventually death. He mentions that this fear of death is the root of all perpetuating problems, because it affects the way an individual thinks, impedes relationships, and annihilates moral responsibilities.

Lucretius discusses the concept and ideals of self-pity a man feels when he fears that death is impending and then mauled by animals. He states that the man should not have any internal feelings because he is imagining this scenario in a bystander perspective. However, in the real course of death, there will be no source of “self” to mourn, and it would not be possible to flinch at his own decease. Therefore, it is futile to worry about this facet of the future, since it is not possible to experience. There is no escape from death because it is