Antiquity, authority, and religion in the Epitomae and Epistolae of Virgilius Maro Grammaticus
Rory Naismith
Virgilius Maro Grammaticus’s origins and date have often been discussed: the setting he imagined for his works has not. How himself ‘authorities’ reveals a fascinating mélange of names, characters, religious ideas plucked from history, all brought together to emphasise antiquity variety within Latin language. Modelled on atmosphere familiar Late Antique early medieval grammars, Virgilius’s was probably created allow veiled comment future in changing intellectual circumstances. There is considerable manuscript citation evidence that name Grammaticus not used period, Epitomae Epistolae are ascribed only Maro. The ambiguity this strengthened by presence Aeneas other classical-sounding authorities, much confusion amongst readers copyists trying distinguish grammarian poet.
Peritia