The wife in Juvenal's satire and the wife in the epitaph present contrasting portrayals of Roman wives. In the epitaph, the wife, named Claudia, is described as a loving and devoted spouse. She is praised for her charm, gentleness, and domestic skills, such as managing the household and working with wool. The epitaph portrays her as a positive figure, fulfilling her familial and societal roles with dedication and love for her husband and children.
On the other hand, Juvenal's satire offers a highly critical and negative depiction of Roman wives. The speaker addresses a man named Postumus, mocking him for preparing to enter into marriage. The satire portrays wives as tyrannical, manipulative, and unfaithful. The wife is depicted as controlling and demanding, exerting influence over her husband's actions and decisions. She is characterized as a source of strife and conflict within the marriage, causing
…show more content…
The epitaph on the tombstone serves as a commemorative tribute to a specific individual, Claudia. It seeks to honor her memory and provide a positive image of her as a loving wife and mother. Tombstone inscriptions generally idealize the deceased and emphasize their virtues, often reflecting societal expectations and values. Therefore, the epitaph portrays a more idealized and positive view of Roman wives.
In contrast, Juvenal's satire belongs to a literary genre known for its exaggeration, irony, and social critique. Satires are intended to expose and criticize societal issues, often through humorous or sarcastic means. Juvenal's satire reflects a negative and satirical view of Roman wives, employing hyperbolic language and absurd scenarios to highlight the perceived flaws and vices of women within marriage. Satire allows for social commentary and criticism by taking liberties with reality and highlighting extreme or exaggerated aspects of societal