description Decimus Laberius Overview
Decimus Laberius (c. 106–43 BC) was a Roman knight (eques) and dramatist best known for his literary mimes, a popular form of theatrical entertainment in ancient Rome. In 46 BC, Julius Caesar compelled him to appear and perform in a public competition against his rival, Publilius Syrus. By appearing on stage as a performer, Laberius temporarily lost his equestrian status, a social stigma for a man of his rank.
His surviving fragments, characterized by realism and acute observation of Roman life, provide insight into late Republican theatrical culture.
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Who was Decimus Laberius?
He was a Roman knight and writer of literary mimes who lived around 106 to 43 BC. Unlike the modern idea of mime as silent movement, his work belongs to Roman short dramatic pieces with written text and performance. [Oxford Classical Dictionary](https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/61673/chapter/549656502)
Why did Julius Caesar force Laberius onto the stage?
In 46 BC Caesar compelled the older aristocratic writer to perform one of his own mimes in a public contest. Laberius competed against Publilius Syrus, a celebrated mime writer associated with Syria.
Who won the Laberius and Publilius Syrus contest?
Ancient accounts say Publilius Syrus won the competition held at Caesar's games in 46 BC. Laberius used his prologue to protest the humiliation of making a Roman eques perform publicly.
Do any complete plays by Decimus Laberius survive?
No complete play by Laberius survives; his work is known through fragments and quotations preserved by later authors. That fragmentary record is why histories of Roman mime often discuss his contest with Publilius Syrus alongside the surviving evidence.
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