Forgiveness In Kineca's The Vigil Of Venus

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Medea has at last unleashed her final assault on him and revenge was hers. Medea wanted compensation for what she had lost to Jason during their marriage, and the ruthless murder of the people that encompassed her was the only way she would receive restitution. Ancient Rome was compelled by this myth, as infanticide was prevalent in these times, it eventually it became a capital offense punishable by law, but offenders, such as the likes of Medea, were rarely prosecuted, if ever. This mythical play reflects the beliefs of Lucius Annaeus Seneca and his Epicureanism thought process, suggesting supernatural occurrences should not be discarded considering they are not visible. Gaius Petronius Arbiter authored Trimalchio’s Dinner, this story reflects …show more content…

Motivated by love, spring, and the renewal of both, The Vigil of Venus is a poem reflecting optimism and the hope of forgiveness, possibly signaling the end of the Roman era and a new beginning for the people of Rome. Venus seems to mourn what is to come and states, “And her life’s one wedlock show her flushed with the beauty no man saw,” (643) Bewildered at the absence of recognition in the charm and beauty of Rome, her love is genuine, and is proven with this poem, as she hopes for love and looks forward to possible peace. One of Venus’ primary functions in mythology was love, and this poem allows her to paint a picture of love with colorful symbolism, giving hope for love to the reader, whether or not the reader has experienced it before, a promise of things to come, perhaps personally, or for Rome. When reflecting on The Vigil of Venus, one can see the similarities between the love and devotion to Rome, and the love and affection one might feel for someone. Although, those who have studied Roman literature might not approach this poem with similar views, I however, feel that despite any objections others might have, Venus was optimistic. Ultimately, I believe this poem is suggestive of a faith in the likelihood of love and new beginnings, either for Rome, or for an individual. In the end, Venus remains fearless and clings to the hope of passion and forgiveness, despite past wrongs and an unfamiliar future, which can be translated into hope for

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