Visualizing the Aeneid in Roman décor
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Date
2019-03-31
Authors
Legendre, Sarah
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Abstract
This thesis investigates visual imagery inspired by the Aeneid in Roman décor, grouping the evidence diachronically. The ancient and modern theory of mimesis provides a framework to interpret how the imagery evokes the text; the imagery was not intended as an illustration. I discuss regional patterns and variations in relation to diachronic patterns. Artisans used Aeneid imagery which matched with Roman tastes for mythological imagery in art, such as scenes of couples and heroes. In Late Antiquity, patrons in the eastern empire preferred more general scenes, while patrons in the western empire chose to portray narrative episodes. Artisans and patrons used copybooks to transmit imagery during the imperial period, but in Late Antiquity imagery was inspired by theatrical performances, copybooks, or other popular imagery. Despite the Aeneid’s popularity as a text, the evidence herein confirms earlier suggestions that the visual and textual trajectories of the Aeneid were separate.
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Keywords
Roman art, Roman mosaics, Aeneid, Roman wall paintings, mimesis