Princeton/Stanford Working Papers in Classics, September (2006)
Abstract
Capri, which will explore the interrelationship between culture and empire, between Tiberius’ intellectual passions (including astrology, gastronomy, medicine, mythology, and literature) and his role as princeps. These five papers do not so much develop an argument as explore significant themes which will be examined and deployed in the book in different contexts. “Tiberian Neologisms” examines several words that seem to have been invented or given new meanings during his reign, often by Tiberius himself.
In AD 17,the emperor Tiberius published an edict refusing New Year’s gifts, in which he used a word which was not Latin. After thinking it over at night, he sent for all who were experts in such matters, for he was extremely anxious to have his diction irreproachable. Thereupon one Ateius Capito declared: “Even if no one has previously used this expression, yet now because of you we shall all cite it as an example of classical usage.” But a certain Porcellus replied: “You, Caesar, can confer Roman citizenship upon men, but not upon words.” And the emperor did this man no harm for his remark, in spite of its extreme frankness. (Loeb trans., E. Cary, slightly emended).
Edward Champlin
Princeton/Stanford Working Papers in Classics, September (2006)
Abstract
Capri, which will explore the interrelationship between culture and empire, between Tiberius’ intellectual passions (including astrology, gastronomy, medicine, mythology, and literature) and his role as princeps. These five papers do not so much develop an argument as explore significant themes which will be examined and deployed in the book in different contexts. “Tiberian Neologisms” examines several words that seem to have been invented or given new meanings during his reign, often by Tiberius himself.
In AD 17,the emperor Tiberius published an edict refusing New Year’s gifts, in which he used a word which was not Latin. After thinking it over at night, he sent for all who were experts in such matters, for he was extremely anxious to have his diction irreproachable. Thereupon one Ateius Capito declared: “Even if no one has previously used this expression, yet now because of you we shall all cite it as an example of classical usage.” But a certain Porcellus replied: “You, Caesar, can confer Roman citizenship upon men, but not upon words.” And the emperor did this man no harm for his remark, in spite of its extreme frankness. (Loeb trans., E. Cary, slightly emended).
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