Who Is Ovid Pro Or Anti-Magandist?

1303 Words6 Pages
The poet Publius Ovidius Naso, now more commonly known as Ovid is most known for his magnum opus, Metamorphoses. The Metamorphoses or "Books of Transformations" is a mythological epic with a close retelling of history, from creation to Rome’s conception. It is a literary mystery as to why Emperor Augustus exiled the poet, leading many to question whether Ovid was actually pro or Anti-Augustan. While Ovid is considered an Augustan propagandist, there are aspects of Metamorphoses that at times support and praise Emperor Augustus but also instances of possible criticism. In Book 15 (Metamorphoses, Ovid) a large portion of the poem is praise for Augustus and his ancestors. “ There, wondering at the younger Caesar’s deeds, Julius confessed they…show more content…
Augustus meanwhile intended to regulate morality through the creation of both legal and illegal love. In Metamorphoses, adulterous love can be seen as both destructive and negative in its ability to damage lives and societies reinforcing the edicts about love that Augustus attempted to put forth. While other parts present in the epic (Book 1) like Apollo’s unwanted pursuit of Daphne or even the Goddess of Love Venus becoming interested in Adonis, present the ineffectiveness of trying to control loves desire. Ovid is a very firm professor of his beliefs. Being outwardly jovial with his exuberant personality, causing a great deal of friction with the Princep, Augustus. The importance of his personal ideology played a larger part in his works influence over the Roman people and the effect to which Augustus’ agenda could be furthered. While on the surface Ovid’s work certainly praised the Emperor, the differences in view about society and how life should be lived caused a raft between the artist and his patron. Ovid’s praise may have been noteworthy, but it is pale in comparison to the devotion showcased by his

    More about Who Is Ovid Pro Or Anti-Magandist?

      Open Document