1. Catullus: Background Info
May 1, 2013

2. Catullus: A Brief Biography
Roman poet
Lived c. 84 BC-54 BC
Born in Verona
From wealthy equestrian
family

3. Catullus: A Brief Biography
C’s dad was friends with Julius Caesar
Catullus fell in love with Clodia (“Lesbia”) around 60 BC
He worked in Bithynia on the governor’s staff between BC
No poems datable after 54 BC
App. 116 poems survive

4. Who Is “Lesbia?”
“Lesbia” means “woman from Lesbos.” It’s a reference to the Greek poet Sappho (7th c. BC)
Most scholars agree that Catullus’ “Lesbia” is a pseudonym for Clodia Pulchra Metelli
Same metrical value for both names

5. Clodia From a wealthy senatorial family, the Claudii
Changed her name from “Claudia” to “Clodia” when her younger brother took plebeian status (to run for a plebeian office)
Notorious for gambling, drinking, and affairs!
Suspected of poisoning her husband
Accused another lover, Caelius, of trying to poison her

6. Clodia