Book 6
17
But that grammarian retorted foolishly enough, as if obnoxius and obnoxie differed, not merely in form, but in their substance and meaning: I gave a definition of obnoxins, not obnoxie. But then I, amazed at the ignorance of the presumptuous fellow, answered: Let us, as you wish, disregard the fact that Plautus said obnoxie, if you think that too far-fetched; and let us also say nothing of the passage in Sallust's Catiline: xxiii. 3. 'Also to threaten her with his sword, if she would not be submissive (obnoxia) to him'; but explain to me this example, which is certainly more recent and more familiar. For the following verses of Virgil's are very well known: Georg. i. 395–6. For now the stars' bright sheen is seen undimmed. The rising Moon owes naught (nec .. obnoxia) to brother's rays; but you say that it means 'conscious of her guilt.' In another place too Virgil uses this word with a meaning different from yours, in these lines: Georg. ii. 438. What joy the fields to view That owe no debt (non obnoxia) to hoe or care of man. for care is generally a benefit to fields, not an injury, as it would be according to your definition of obnoxius. Furthermore, how can what Quintus Ennius writes in the following verses from the Phoenix 257 ff., Ribbeck.3 agree with you: 'Tis meet a man should live inspired by courage true, In conscious innocence should boldly challenge foes. True freedom his who bears a pure and steadfast heart, All else less import has (obnoxiosae) and lurks in gloomy night?
