The House of the Tragic Poet of Pompeii –

Uses and the Role in Society

The House of the Tragic Poet, also known as the Homeric House or the Iliadic House, served as a residential property for an affluent family in Pompeii. Its elegant design, combined with the quality and quantity of artwork situated within, suggests that it was the home of an individual or family of substantial wealth and social standing.

The house’s floor plan follows the traditional Roman architectural style, hinting towards a probable use for entertaining guests.

The house’s most distinctive feature, its intricate mosaics and frescoes depicting scenes from Greek tragedies, continues to fuel speculation about the occupation of its original inhabitants. Some scholars suggest that these artistic flourishes indicate the homeowner’s profession as a tragic poet or someone deeply involved in Pompeii’s theatrical community.

However, it is also possible that the house simply belonged to a wealthy patron of the arts with a keen interest in Greek culture. With the Pompeii Archaeological Park’s ongoing excavations, further insights into the house’s uses and the role it played in society continue to emerge.

Construction

The House of the Tragic Poet was constructed in the 2nd century BC, showcasing the quintessential style of Roman domestic architecture. Its creation can be attributed to the wealthy inhabitants of Pompeii, who had an affinity for Greek art and culture. The builders employed locally sourced materials such as tuff, a type of volcanic rock, to construct the primary structure, while the details were crafted using stucco and lime.

The pavements and wall structures feature opus signinum, a type of waterproof cement widely used in Roman construction. The stunning mosaics and frescoes, characteristic of the house, were created with a combination of natural pigments and plaster. The intricate detail and preservation of these works serve as a testament to the expertise of the builders and artisans of that time.

Noteworthy Details

A visit to the House of the Tragic Poet isn’t complete without taking note of the following key attractions:

• The Entryway Mosaic: The captivating ‘Cave Canem’ (Beware of Dog) mosaic that greets visitors at the entrance.
• The Atrium: An open courtyard featuring a central pool, capturing the essence of Roman architectural design.
• The Triclinium Frescoes: These dining room frescoes depict scenes from Greek tragedies, including Iphigenia in Tauris and Orestes and Pylades.
• The Mosaic of Apollo and Daphne: Located in the tablinum, this stunning mosaic showcases the mythological tale of Apollo’s unrequited love for Daphne.
• The Peristyle: A large garden surrounded by a columned walkway, presenting a perfect example of Roman indoor-outdoor living spaces.
• The Small Theatre: An intimate space presumably used for private performances, further suggesting the owner’s connection to the theatrical arts.

Where to find The House of the Tragic Poet of Pompeii in the Archaeological Park

The House of the Tragic Poet can be found in Region VI of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, occupying a prime location in the city’s ancient center. Nestled at VI, 8, 3-5, the house sits just a short walk away from the Via dell’Abbondanza, Pompeii’s main thoroughfare. This central positioning makes it an easily accessible highlight for all visitors exploring the profound historical depth of Pompeii.

Some Historical Facts about The House of the Tragic Poet of Pompeii

The House of the Tragic Poet harbours a rich tapestry of historical events, myths, and legends, adding to its allure as a prime archaeological site:

• Discovery: The House of the Tragic Poet was discovered in November 1824 by the archaeologist Antonio Bonucci. Its discovery brought to light some of the most well-preserved examples of Roman domestic architecture and artwork, making it one of Pompeii’s most celebrated finds.
• Preservation: Despite being uncovered nearly two centuries ago, the house’s mosaics and frescoes remain remarkably well-preserved due to the volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. This ash effectively ‘froze’ the house in time, safeguarding its architectural and artistic treasures.
• Mysterious Inscription: An inscription found on the house’s floor reads ‘HAVE’, a greeting that translates to ‘Hail!’. This benign salutation is a subject of fascination for historians, as its significance remains enigmatic.
• Myths: The house’s detailed frescoes and mosaics depict various Greek myths, with the ‘Cave Canem’ mosaic and the depiction of the tragic myth of Iphigenia being particularly noteworthy. These artistic renditions indicate the homeowner’s fascination with Greek mythology and possibly his status as an eminent poet or patron of the arts.
• Survivors: While the fate of the house’s inhabitants remains uncertain, evidence suggests the occupants may have survived the initial eruption of Vesuvius. Archaeologists found that the house was locked and empty at the time of the eruption, suggesting the residents may have escaped in time.

Conclusion

In summary, the House of the Tragic Poet remains one of Pompeii’s significant archaeological discoveries, offering invaluable insights into Roman domestic architecture, art, and culture. Its intricate mosaics and frescoes, primarily reflecting Greek tragedies, convey a compelling narrative about the inhabitants’ sophisticated tastes and possible connections to the theatrical arts.

The house’s strategic location within Pompeii Archaeological Park and the remarkable preservation of its artistic elements add layers of intrigue and appeal to the site. The historical facts surrounding its discovery, preservation, mysterious inscriptions, and depictions of Greek myths render it a compelling point of interest for historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike.

Therefore, a visit to this ancient property holds the promise of a journey back in time, offering a window into the grandeur and artistic richness of the Roman era.