Horatian notes III: despised readings in the manuscripts of the Epodes and a passage of Odes Book 3

Abstract

I continue my observations on neglected readings in Horatian manuscripts, begun in these Proceedings, N.S. 15 (1969) and N.S. 17 (1971). I remind readers that my present subject concerns solely the differences between manuscript readings. In that respect my purpose differs from that of P. Maas in SIFC 27–28 (1956) 227–8. While I would not at all object to walking sulle orme di Paul Maas, my opinions on these matters crystallised before he published his paper, and an appraisal of the worth of manuscript readings is a different exercise from emending a corrupt text. In some respects it is easier, in others it is not. The importance of Bentley's work for textual criticism can be understood only by those who have familiarized themselves with both kinds of criticism. Likewise the inadequacy of current editions of Horace will not be brought home to scholars until they have made themselves so aware. A firm basis of what is acceptable in the transmitted text is required before we can hope to achieve agreement on the many places where no manuscript reading will satisfy critical inspection.