Date of Award
Spring 4-29-2021
Document Type
Honors Project
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Classics, Philosophy, and Religion
Department Chair or Program Director
Romero, Joseph
First Advisor
Pitts, Angela
Major or Concentration
Latin
Abstract
This thesis examines the influence of Greek lyric poetry, primarily Sappho and Alcaeus, on Horace’s carpe diem poems. Horace weaves Greek lyric themes and meters into his poetry. He also imitates the structure of alternation scenes and injunction passed down in the lyric tradition from the poet Archilochus. However, Horace distinguishes himself by adding uniquely Roman elements and varying the tones of his speaker. He utilizes the variety of tones or perspectives in order to highlight the proper response to death, enjoying the symposium.
Recommended Citation
Wilmot, Ruth, "Carpe Diem and Consolation: Horace's Imitation and Manipulation of Greek Lyric Models" (2021). Student Research Submissions. 409.
https://scholar.umw.edu/student_research/409