Up to now the ninth and longest book of Lucan's poem on the Civil War has lacked a continuous commentary satisfying modern requirements. This want has now been supplied. The Latin text is accompanied by a new German translation, which incorporates all the insights resulting from the detailed commentary. An introduction discusses such topics as Lucan's treatment of his historical sources and of various literary models. Extensive indexes complete the work. Besides the examination of the poet1s language and style, particular attention is paid throughout to questions of his epic technique and the use of typical motifs.