I. The Historical Background of the Fourth Eclogue

1. The Political Situation: The Roman Republic from the Punic Wars to 40 B.C.

2. The Life of Publius Vergilius Maro

II. The Fourth Eclogue

Latin Text with English Translation

1. Explanation of Classical Terms

2. Biblical Ideas Represented in the Fourth Eclogue

IV. Interpretations of the Fourth Eclogue

1. Roman Authors

2. Early Christian Authors

3. Medieval Authors

4. Modern Interpretations

V. Outstanding Concepts in the Fourth Eclogue

1. The Concept of Time

2. The Religious World-View

3. The Divine Child

4. The Golden Age

5. The World of Faith

6. Forgiveness as God's Redemptive Activity

VI. Summary