BLURRING THE BOUNDARIES: EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY OF POETRY AND ART IN MOSCHUS’ EUROPA

  • Alessia Del Mistro University of Cape Town

Abstract

Moschus’ Europa demonstrates a sophisticated use of descriptive language that blurs the boundaries between ekphrasis and narrative. In the ekphrasis of Europa’s basket, Moschus brings movement to the static artwork, giving it a more significant role in the overall frame narrative. On the other hand, he freezes scenes in the frame narrative (I focus on the meadow and Zeus as a bull) and, through vivid description, affords the reader the sensation of viewing works of art. By using these techniques, Moschus acknowledges poetry’s artifice and profoundly enriches engagement with the text on aesthetic and interpretive levels.
Published
2024-03-19
Section
Varia Didactica