On the Origin of Statius, Thebaid 6.227–33

Abstract

This discussion deals with Statius, Thebaid 6.227-33, a passage considered an interpolation by most critics. The most recent edition of the poem describes the lines as genuine but transmitted in the wrong position without indicating their original location. I develop this perspective by considering and rejecting a possible transposition of the passage to a position between Thebaid 3.113 and 3.114. I then argue that the lines might instead be a marginal creation of an ancient interpolator inspired by the passage in Book 3.