The presentation and functions of selected bathing scenes in Nonnos’ Dionysiaca
The presentation and functions of selected bathing scenes in Nonnos’ Dionysiaca

Summary/Abstract: The Dionysiaca by Nonnos of Panopolis includes many episodes from everyday life of Greek mythological characters. Among other things related to issues of this kind, Nonnos mentions the bathing scenes of male, and in particular of female characters. For an instance, the author mentions the new-born Dionysus who is being bathed. Also, there are numerous scenes depicting females taking a bath (e.g. Artemis, Nicaea, Semele, Persephone). As for male bathing scenes, it is Morrheus’ bath that is especially worth-noting. The article, after having given a general division of the bathing scenes included in the Dionysiaca, analyses their composition and meaning in the context of the poem. It mostly focuses on the activities related to taking a bath and the importance of hygiene and nakedness. The conclusion demonstrates the most important differences between Nonnos and Homer in regard to the descriptions of bathing scenes.

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