Interpretative notes on Valerius Flaccus, Argonautica 5.379, 380, 416-432, with an appendix on Ovid, Metamorphoses 2.398-400

This article offers some interpretative insights into the fifth book of Valerius Flaccus’ Argonautica. In the first part, a Virgilian allusion is highlighted (5.379 ∼ A. 4.511), which contributes to the tragic irony that characterizes Jason’s speech to Medea during their first meeting. The second part suggests a reaction by Valerius to contemporary Virgilian criticism, specifically that of Marcus Valerius Probus. In part three, some considerations are made on the relationship between the “historical” scenes carved on the door of the temple of Sol (5.416-432) and the Argonautic saga, linking the pharaoh Sesostris to Jason, the nymph Aea to Medea, and the death of Phaethon to that of Apsyrtus. Finally, a brief appendix (§4) reaffirms the authenticity of Ov. Met. 2.398-400 in light of its relationship to the Homeric model (Il. 19.399-403) and Valerius’ later allusion (5.432).