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What are the anima and animus in De rerum natura?
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Lucretius
Lucretius, engraving of a bust.
In De rerum natura, Lucretius explains that the soul is composed of exceedingly fine atoms and consists of two interconnected parts:1
- Anima: This part is distributed throughout the entire body and serves as the cause of sensation.1
- Animus: Located in the breast, this part functions as the center of consciousness.1
Lucretius argues that because the soul is made of these atomic structures, it is born and grows alongside the body, and it is ultimately dissipated like smoke upon death.1