Enigmi e paradossi in Marziale (IV 3 e IV 18), o l'epigramma come teatro della vita

Martial’s epigram IV 3 shows amazing analogies with the typical technique of enigma. A comparison with the collection of the late-antique poet Symposius seems to confirm the thesis that sees the origin of the enigma-form in an evolution (and empowerment) of epigram. Another epigram, IV 18, is also connected to enigma: it stages the ‘perfect crime’, and shows how poetic language can become a mirror of the paradoxes of reality.