Lines 550 - 553 Notes

Question 1

ipsa

Answer 1

The ‘very same’ altar where Hecuba sought refuge

Question 2

trementem

Answer 2

Attention drawn to Priam’s age and fear - he is a vulnerable target

Question 3

traxit

Answer 3

This is aggressive and physically violent. None of this is necessary to defeat a weak old man (overkill).

Question 4

in sanguine nati

Answer 4

What more disgusting and horrific experience than to be dragged through your own murdered son’s blood

Question 5

laeva / dextra

Answer 5

Left and right hands juxtaposed to emphasise the full activity of the violence Pyrrhus engaged in.

Question 6

comam

Answer 6

Yanking him up by the hair is very undignified

Question 7

coruscum

Answer 7

The sword is described as ‘glittering’ - this brings colour and movement to a grim scene. Are we expected to find death exciting.

Question 8

abdidit

Answer 8

‘buries’ the blade up to the hilt. More aggressive unnecessary overkill as Pyrrhus delivers a lung-full of Furor after the comments about his father