Abstract

This paper explores Horace’s engagement with Latin love elegy through the motif of magic in Epodes 5 and 17. I argue that Horace’s Canidia and the elegiac puellae are constructed in tandem as part of an ongoing dialogue between Horace’s Epodes and early love elegy. Horace literalises the elegiac lovers’ metaphorical characterisation of their mistress’ beauty as magically enchanting to construct Canidia as a witch who controls her lovers with erotic magic. Through Canidia and the theme of magic in the Epodes, Horace uses elegy to define his iambic poetics and to demonstrate that love elegy is central to his development of the Roman iambic tradition.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.