PERSIUS, SA TURN AND JUPITER

  • J. C. Zietsman University of Stellenbosch

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Persius' fifth satire can be divided into five distinct sections to which I shall refer as Units. A broad outline of the structure of the satire can be represented as follows: Unit 1:1-29 The poet's rejection of the traditional themes and style used by contemporary poets. Unit 2:30-51 When Persius had freedom of choice, he chose Cornutus as his example and learned from him the principles of Stoicism. Unit 3:52-72 Other professions and walks of life that Persius might imagine lead to disaster; he invites his audience to change their way of life and outlook now, and follow the doctrines of Cornutus. Unit 4:73-131 Cornutus teaches uirtus, and this uirtus will grant one, by way of ratio, true libertas. Unit 5:132-191 On the other hand, refusal to change one's attitude and way of life leads to seruitus because of one's uitia.
Published
2014-03-30
Section
Articles