Dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī

Definition

This phrase translates to 'rich in resources and very harsh in the pursuits of war' and reflects the dual nature of wealth and aggression associated with certain characters or entities in the Aeneid. It emphasizes the theme of conflict arising from both abundance and ambition, setting the stage for the ensuing struggles within the epic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase is used to describe a powerful entity that is not only wealthy but also aggressive in its ambitions, highlighting the interplay between prosperity and warfare.
2. In the Aeneid, this expression can be connected to the motivations behind conflicts faced by Aeneas and his followers, illustrating the tension between peace and aggression.
3. The use of 'dīves' suggests a significant level of wealth that may provoke envy or conflict from others, aligning with themes of rivalry prevalent throughout the epic.
4. The adjective 'asperrima' indicates extreme harshness, portraying the brutal realities of war that Aeneas must navigate during his journey.
5. This phrase encapsulates one of the central conflicts in the Aeneid: the struggle between human desires for wealth and glory versus the divine will guiding Aeneas toward his fated destiny.

Review Questions

• How does the phrase 'dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī' relate to Aeneas's journey and challenges throughout the Aeneid?
  • The phrase encapsulates Aeneas's challenges as he confronts powerful adversaries who are both wealthy and militaristic. The riches symbolize resources that can fuel ambition, while the harshness of war underscores the brutal reality he faces. This duality reflects his struggle not just against external enemies but also against the temptations of power and glory, which threaten to divert him from his destined path.
• Discuss how 'dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī' contributes to the overall themes of conflict and destiny in the Aeneid.
  • 'dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī' highlights key themes of conflict driven by wealth and ambition. In the epic, these themes are often juxtaposed with Aeneas's quest for fulfilling his fate despite opposition. Wealth can lead to rivalries and wars that disrupt peace, demonstrating how external forces challenge destiny. This reinforces the idea that Aeneas's journey is not merely a personal quest but one intertwined with larger historical forces and divine intervention.
• Evaluate the significance of wealth and war as portrayed through 'dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī' in shaping characters' motivations and actions within the Aeneid.
  • 'dīves opum studiīsque asperrima bellī' serves as a crucial lens through which to analyze character motivations. For example, figures driven by avarice or desire for power often find themselves in conflict with Aeneas. Their actions are motivated by their riches, which lead them to pursue aggressive strategies rather than diplomacy. This portrayal emphasizes how greed can distort purpose and create chaos, reflecting broader societal truths about ambition's destructive potential amidst personal quests for greatness.

Related terms

Imperium: A term referring to absolute power or authority, especially in the context of military command in Roman society.

Bellum: The Latin word for 'war', representing both physical conflict and broader themes of strife and struggle within human experience.

Avaritia: Greed or avarice, which can lead individuals or states to pursue endless wealth, often resulting in conflict and war.