Priapic Punishments in Petronius’ Satyrica 16–26

Abstract

In Petronius’ Satyrica 16–26, Quartilla approaches Giton, Ascyltus, and Encolpius to cure her Tertian Fever (17.7). More than this occurs, however. The trio are to be punished for an inexpiabile scelus (17.6) and Encolpius is apparently singled out for earlier offenses against the god. The odd things occuring at this vigil can be explained as retribution for these earlier crimes. In the Priapea and Horace (Sermones 1.8) Priapus’ style often is to punish offenders by turning upon them the same crime or a humorous inversion of it. Accordingly, the punishments at the Priapi genio pervigilium suggest what Encolpius’ earlier crimes against the god were.