Poètes latins et zones climatiques : Heurs et malheurs d’un topos

Abstract

From Accius, Varro or Lucretius onwards, Latin poets have repeatedly alluded to or described the division of the terrestrial and celestial spheres into five climatic zones. The present paper is tracking down and delving into the several pas­sages where this theory was mentioned from the origins of Latin literature until the 5th century A.D. Be they shorter or longer, these excerpts show regular in­terest and curiosity for a highly scientific topic from authors whose verses are not necessarily dedicated prima facie to science in general or to geography and as­tronomy in particular. Over time the picture of the zones evolved into a true li­te­rary topos whose grounds for attractiveness are also looked into. The Romans’ natural appeal for reality and technical matters is one of them, as well as the philo­­sophical, moral or ideological dimensions of the theme. Last but not least, this topos offers a wide range of possibilities to authors willing to engage in an agonistic process, fully compliant with the ancient concept of creative mimesis, in order to display their personality and originality.