A Problem in Augustine, Confessions 3.21

Abstract

Abstract This paper reconsiders a problem raised by the verb substomachans in Augustine’s Confessions (3.21). Contrary to what has been argued by a recent scholar, the verb does not mean “to belch (out)”. Since the word only occurs once in the writings of Augustine, and only appears again in Latin in the derivative writings of Julian of Eclanum (C.Iul. imp. 6.16), there has always been some debate about its form and meaning. The verb is probably nothing more than a Latin calque (loan translation) of Greek ὑπαγανακτέω (“to be somewhat angry”).