Who is recognized as the greatest prose author of the Roman Golden Age?

The recognition of Livy as the greatest prose author of the Roman Golden Age stems from his monumental work, "Ab Urbe Condita" (From the Founding of the City), which chronicles the history of Rome from its legendary origins through the early Republic. Livy's narrative style combined historical research with literary artistry, and he effectively engaged themes of morality, civic virtue, and the lessons of history, making his works highly influential in both his time and later periods.

His ability to weave together historical fact with engaging storytelling helped to set a standard for historical writing that has resonated through Western literature. Additionally, Livy’s emphasis on the moral dimensions of history—how past events can serve as lessons for contemporary audiences—makes his writing particularly significant in the context of Roman values.

While Ptolemy is noted for his contributions to astronomy and geography, and Horace is celebrated for his poetry and insights into human nature and society, Livy’s comprehensive historical narrative places him in a unique position within the realm of prose literature during the Roman Golden Age. Apuleius, known for his philosophical work and the novel "The Golden Ass," came later and does not have the same historical impact as Livy in terms of prose writing during the Golden Age.