Brewer's: Satire

(2 syl.). Scaliger's derivation of this word from satyr is untenable. It is from satura (full of variety), satura lanx a hotchpotch or olla podrida. As maxumus, optumus, etc., became maximus, optimus, so “satura” became satira. (See Dryden's Dedication prefixed to his Satires.)

Lucilius was the man who, bravely bold, To Roman vices did the mirror hold; Protected humble goodness from reproach, Showed worth on foot, and rascals in a coach.

Dryden: Art of Poetry, c. ii.

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