Martial was a Roman poet known for his epigrams, which are short, witty poems often focused on everyday life and social commentary. He lived during the late 1st century AD and is best known for his work in the Epigrams, a collection that provides insight into Roman society, culture, and the lives of its citizens. His writing style is characterized by sharp humor and clever wordplay, making his poems both entertaining and thought-provoking. Martial's influence can be seen in later poets and writers, and he is often regarded as a master of the epigram form, contributing significantly to the literary tradition of satire and humor.