Subject of this paper is Cephalus’ autobiographical account in Ovid’s Metamorphoses 7.690-865, a passage that has given rise to various and even contradictory interpretations. Is Cephalus a liar? Is he in good faith? The present analysis takes a broader view of the problem relying on rhetorical concepts such as context and contents of speech. The Ovidian scenario includes alluding to epic models and configurating the hero as an internal narrator. Cephalus’ communicative strategy aims at creating effects of pathos and truth. Ovid has operated an innovative selection between existing versions of the myth of Cephalus and Procris (among which the preserved fragment of Pherecydes) in order to construct an authoritative character and an exemplary story.
Il personaggio di Cefalo nelle Metamorfosi di Ovidio. Modelli epici e scelte retoriche
Alessandra Romeo
2020-01-01
Abstract
Subject of this paper is Cephalus’ autobiographical account in Ovid’s Metamorphoses 7.690-865, a passage that has given rise to various and even contradictory interpretations. Is Cephalus a liar? Is he in good faith? The present analysis takes a broader view of the problem relying on rhetorical concepts such as context and contents of speech. The Ovidian scenario includes alluding to epic models and configurating the hero as an internal narrator. Cephalus’ communicative strategy aims at creating effects of pathos and truth. Ovid has operated an innovative selection between existing versions of the myth of Cephalus and Procris (among which the preserved fragment of Pherecydes) in order to construct an authoritative character and an exemplary story.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
