The Rhetoric of Ekphrasis and Performed Orality in Vergil’s Aeneid

Abstract

The complex relationship between written and oral texts has been simplified and broken into two distinct stages in the evolution of language. While there are considerable differences in the construction and narrative technique of oral and written texts, it must be understood that they also have significant impact on each other. Written texts are a logical evolution following and flowing from oral tradition; the impact orality has on the construction and understanding of written work cannot be overstated. Considering oral texts that were created or transcribed after the advent of literacy also presents a different understanding of how orality works and is used. Despite being constructed as a written text, Vergil’s Aeneid is built around oral tradition, evidenced by the rhetorical techniques used within the text. In particular, ekphrasis—visual representation within a literary work as a method of storytelling—is a strategy that he uses in contrast to several oral narratives within the epic. Throughout the piece, Vergil parallels his role as an author within the text; the characters interact through oral performance, ekphrasis and emotional responses to petition. By re-creating the orator to audience relationship within the text, he deconstructs and employs concepts of both orality and textuality as complementary methods instead of irreconcilable processes.