Cicero letter to atticus

Mite/placidum

These words emphasize Quintus' calm and gentle nature, highlighting his patience and self-control

humanisse

emphasises quintus’ politeness towards his wife

Dulcius

Suggests Quintus' kind-heartedness not just in actions, but in his demeanour, making Pomponia's reaction seem even harsher.

hospita

Pomponia calls herself a stranger (guest) in her own home, which conveys her sense of alienation or hostility, creating a strong contrast with Quintus’ hospitality

absurde/aspere

 These words describe Pomponia's unreasonable and harsh response, making her behaviour seem overly aggressive and irrational

discubuimus

Implies a normal social gathering, but the fact that Pomponia does not join in underscores her rejection of social norms.

reiecit

Her rejection of Quintus' offering emphasizes the conflict and her refusal to reconcile

lenius / asperius

The contrast between lenius (gentler) and asperius (harsher) sums up the whole interaction, highlighting the stark difference in their attitudes