What is Pliny the Elder's only surviving work?

Pliny the Elder’s only surviving work is "Historia Naturalis," also known as "Natural History." This monumental text encompasses a vast range of subjects, including the arts, architecture, zoology, botany, and minerals, providing valuable insights into the knowledge and beliefs of the ancient world. It consists of 37 books and serves not only as an encyclopedia of the natural world but also reflects the Roman attitude toward nature and human interaction with it.

The significance of "Historia Naturalis" lies in its comprehensive scope and detailed observations, which contributed to both scientific thought and literature. It stands as an essential historical document that has influenced subsequent scholars and naturalists throughout the ages. The work exemplifies Pliny’s dedication to cataloging and understanding the world around him, combining empirical observations with literary flair.

The other choices represent works that are significant in their own right, but they do not pertain to Pliny the Elder. "De Materia Medica" is attributed to Dioscorides and focuses on medicinal plants. "Metamorphoses," a narrative poem exploring themes of transformation, is credited to Ovid. "Natural History of Animals" is not a recognized title associated with Pliny and may refer more broadly to elements found within "Historia