AMS presents Flowers in Venantius Fortunatus: The Continuity of Nature in Late Antiquity

Ancient & Medieval Studies Colloquium presents Adam Trettel, Lecturer from the Department of the Classics at Harvard University.

Flower imagery abounds in the poetry of Venantius Fortunatus (6th century CE). This talk will seek to establish continuity with other classical and Christian authors, but also ask whether there is something distinctive in Fortunatus' approach. Starting by offering a categorization of his flower citations, I will offer close readings of two poems (Carmina 4.26, 8.7). I then relate his flower-discussions to ways Augustine speaks about nature in the City of God, to inquire whether Fortunatus' treatment of flowers is uniquely Christian or Platonic. This could shed new light on his educational background and literary goals. Guests from all subjects are very welcome.