125-144

Nicander, Theriaka 334-358 G.-S. [468-492 Hop.] : a hermeneutical approach

• Παπαδοπούλου, Ιωάννα Ν.

The author presents, translates and comments an extract from Nicanders’ Theriaka which refers to the snake called “dipsas”. The bite of that particular snake is lethal, tantalizing its victim with unquenchable thirst (in Greek, dipsa). Nicander explains this fact by invoking an ancient myth: When the gods offered to the humans the gift of eternal youth, our remote ancestors charged a white donkey to transport it. Suffering from thirst, the animal surrendered its precious load to the snake “dipsas” in exchange of water. Thus the snakes remain forever young, changing their skin, and the donkey’s thirst is transmitted, via the “dipsas”, to the victims of the latter. The author explores and compares various versions of the myth in ancient sources, where the snakes are linked to rejuvenation and immortality.Moreover, she argues for the authenticity of Nicanders’ work, as is shown by the acrostic of the verses 345-353, which forms the poets’ name.

• Languages and Literature

• Λογοτεχνία
• Classical philology