When is the golden age of Latin literature considered to have occurred?

The golden age of Latin literature is primarily recognized as occurring in the 1st century BC, a period rich with significant literary achievements and influential authors. This era features prominent figures such as Virgil, whose epic poem "The Aeneid" is a cornerstone of Latin literature, and Cicero, known for his speeches and philosophical works that shaped Roman rhetoric and political thought. Horace and Ovid also emerged during this time, providing a range of poetry that contributed to the depth and diversity of Latin literary tradition.

The choice of the 1st century BC reflects a time when Rome was transitioning from a Republic to an Empire, allowing for an outpouring of artistic expression which captured both the complexities of Roman society and the human experience. This period laid the foundation for subsequent literary movements and remains a pivotal point of reference when studying Latin literature as a whole.