Statius’s Thebaid

Publius Papinius Statius, born around 45AD, was a prominent Greco-Roman poet of the first century. His notable works include the epic “Thebaid,” comprising twelve books, a collection entitled “Silvae,” and his unfinished epic the “Achilleid.” He is also recognised as a posthumous literary presence, and guide to Dante, in the Purgatory cantos of the latter’s “Divine Comedy.”

Statius’s father, of uncertain name, was originally from Velia and later moved to Naples and Rome. He was a respected teacher of Greek and Roman literature in Naples, attracting pupils bound for religious roles in Rome, and was a successful contestant in various poetic competitions. He died in 79AD.

Raised in the culturally rich environment of the Bay of Naples, Statius was deeply influenced by Greek literature. He won multiple poetic contests in Naples and at the Alban Festival where the Roman Emperor Domitian awarded him the golden crown. After his father’s death, Statius relocated to Rome around 90AD, where he published the “Thebaid” circa 92AD. In Rome, he established connections with the aristocracy and court, possibly receiving their patronage.

His first three books of “Silvae,” published in 93AD, reflected his experiences and social and political connections in Rome. Having competed unsuccessfully in the prestigious Capitoline competition, Statius returned to Naples around 94AD. Here, he wrote the fourth book of “Silvae,” published in 95AD, and began the “Achilleid.”

Statius’s stepdaughter and a young slave boy, whom he mentored, played significant roles in his later life. Statius died around 95AD, leaving the “Achilleid” incomplete. His fifth book of “Silvae” was posthumously published circa 96AD.

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