Abstract
T HE central problem in the interpretation of Tibullus 1. 7 is to determine the meaning of the hymn to Osiris and its relation to the rest of the poem.1 A secondary problem is to account for the exceptionally large number of literary allusions and echoes from other poets.2 The solution that I should like to propose is that both the hymn and the literary echoes are used as tributes to Messalla. Tibullus has artfully complimented his patron by equating him with the god Osiris.3 He has included the literary allusions as a tribute to Messalla's interest in poetry. The poem as a whole thus is not only an acknowledgment of Messalla's achievements as a general and an administrator, but also a compliment to his intellectual interests and his connoisseur's knowledge of Roman and Alexandrian poetry. In order to show that this is the case, I shall discuss first Messalla himself and then the poem in which Tibullus praises him.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
