1. Virgil (Publius Vergilius Maro): Best known for the *Aeneid*, an epic poem that narrates the legendary founding of Rome. His works are considered foundational to Roman literature and identity.
2. Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus): A master of lyric poetry, known for his odes, satires, and epistles. His work offers insightful commentary on Roman society and the human condition.
3. Ovid (Publius Ovidius Naso): Famous for his *Metamorphoses*, a collection of myths transformed into poems. He also wrote *Ars Amatoria* (The Art of Love) and other works exploring love and human relationships.
4. Tacitus (Publius Cornelius Tacitus): A historian and senator known for his insightful and often critical accounts of the Roman Empire, particularly his *Annals* and *Histories*. His works offer valuable primary source material for understanding Roman politics and society.
These four represent different genres and perspectives within Roman literature, offering a broad understanding of the intellectual and artistic achievements of the Roman world. Many other significant Roman writers could also be included, depending on the specific criteria.