Sophisticating a Cyclops: Polyphemus and Galatea in Roman Wall-Painting

Abstract

This thesis thoroughly examines Roman wall-paintings involving Polyphemus and Galatea. The goal of this thesis is to consider what ideas these paintings can offer concerning Roman values and aspirations. The different depictions of Polyphemus and Galatea at Pompeii are affected by Roman ideas on cultural reception, the power of education, and engagement with myth and fantasy. Their relationship takes on new forms not present in the literary tradition as a result of this Roman influence. Polyphemus becomes a vessel for interplay between literary and visual portrayals, self-representation, and fantasy. The paintings in this thesis are divided into three categories: Gaze wall-paintings, Cupid wall-paintings, and Erotic wall-paintings. Each illustrate ways the Romans interacted with the myth and created new variations, sometimes leaving the interpretation to the viewer.