Explain the use of the ablative in 'atro...veneno'.
Ablative of means, indicating the instrument by which Laocoon is poisoned.
What is the grammatical function of 'perfusus'?
Perfect passive participle modifying 'vittas'.
What case is 'operi' and what is its function?
Dative of purpose, indicating the reason for the action.
Identify the tense and mood of 'accingunt'.
Present active indicative, 3rd person plural.
Explain the use of the ablative in 'feta armis'.
Ablative of description, describing the Trojan horse.
What is the case and number of 'clamores'?
Accusative plural.
What is the case and number of 'Tritonidis'?
Genitive singular.
What is the grammatical function of 'minans'?
Present active participle, modifying 'illa'.
Identify the type of clause and its function, if any, in 'qualis mugitus, fugit cum saucius aram taurus'.
Cum clause, temporal.
What is the case of 'funem' and why?
Accusative, direct object of 'contingere'.
Explain the syntax of 'sub pedibusque deae clipeique sub orbe teguntur'.
The preposition 'sub' is repeated (polysyndeton) with ablative objects ('pedibus' and 'orbe') indicating location where the snakes are hiding.
Who is Laocoon?
A priest of Neptune who warns the Trojans about the Trojan Horse.
Who is Minerva (Tritonidis)?
The Roman goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and crafts, equivalent to the Greek goddess Athena. She is a patron of the Greeks and opposes the Trojans.
What is the significance of sacrificing a bull?
Bulls were common sacrificial animals in ancient Rome, offered to various gods to seek favor or atone for sins.
What does the death of Laocoon symbolize?
It symbolizes the Trojans' impending doom and the power of the gods to punish those who defy them. It also represents the tragic consequences of ignoring warnings.
What is the significance of the Trojan Horse?
It represents deception and the downfall of Troy. It highlights the Trojans' gullibility and their failure to heed warnings.
What role does fate play in the Aeneid?
Fate is a major theme, dictating the events of the story and the destinies of the characters. Even the gods are subject to fate.
Why are the snakes described as 'gemini'?
The twin snakes emphasize the magnitude and horror of the divine intervention, making the event more terrifying and impactful.
What is the cultural significance of 'innuptae puellae'?
Unwedded girls (innuptae puellae) participating in the procession highlights the solemnity and religious nature of bringing the horse into the city. Their innocence contrasts with the impending doom.
How does the scene reflect Roman values?
The scene reflects Roman values through its emphasis on piety (or lack thereof), the importance of heeding divine warnings, and the tragic consequences of hubris.
How does Vergil use the gods to influence the story?
Vergil uses the gods to control events, reward or punish characters, and ultimately shape the destiny of Rome. Their interventions highlight the power of the divine and the limitations of human agency.
What is the significance of the snakes seeking shelter under Minerva's shield?
It symbolizes that Minerva is on the Greek's side, and that she is the reason for the destruction of Troy.