Imitators and Innovators
Imitators and Innovators
This chapter is focused on the Roman general Marcellus, discussing his role as foil to – as well as a replacement figure for – Silius’ Hannibal. In particular, the discussion centres on Marcellus’ campaign in Sicily, which dominates events in Book 14. It is argued that this book functions as a mini-epic, where Marcellus, in the absence of Hannibal, becomes a replacement figure for the Carthaginian. His siege of Syracuse acts as a replay of Hannibal's siege of Saguntum, but now Marcellus shows Silius’ audience how a siege ought to be conducted – without bloodshed. From Sicily, the discussion turns to Silius’ account of Marcellus’ death in Italy and his burial by Hannibal. In this burial scene, Hannibal confirms that he and Marcellus should be viewed as equals – two colossi who are ‘props’ to their respective city-states.
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