Ovid, Amores 1.15 – Immortality Through Poetry

Survey

Ovid defends the value of poetry over traditional accomplishments like war or politics.

Theme: Eternal Fame Through Art

Ovid justifies writing love poetry by claiming that poetic fame outlasts all others—his words will travel and endure. He states, 'Aspice me, cui parva domi fortuna…' ('Look at me, whose fortune at home is small…').

Device: Allusion to Myth & Poets

Ovid compares himself to great poets like Homer and Ennius, suggesting that love poetry deserves the same respect as epic poetry. He quotes, 'Homerus… Maeonides… Ennius…'.

Review

R: In 1.15, Ovid elevates love poetry to the level of epic and argues that art—not war—is what gives lasting glory.