In Catullus' 3rd poem what does "Veneres Cupidinesque" refer to and what is the signifigance of "passer"?
I've checked some sites but they don't give me clear explanations to these 2 things.
In Catullus' 3rd poem, the phrase "Veneres Cupidinesque" refers to "Venus and Cupid." Venus is the Roman goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, while Cupid is the god of desire, affection, and erotic love. In this context, the phrase indicates love and desire, essentially encompassing the themes of the poem.
As for the "passer," it refers to a sparrow. In the poem, the sparrow serves as a metaphor for love and fidelity. The significance of the passer lies in its portrayal of an idealized relationship between the poet's lover, Lesbia, and her pet sparrow. The sparrow is described as the object of Lesbia's affection, receiving all her love and attention. By using the passer as a symbol, the poet highlights the intensity of Lesbia's emotions and her dedication to the sparrow, which can be seen as parallel to her relationship with the poet himself.
To get this information, I recommend reading the poem itself and analyzing the context and literary devices used by Catullus. Additionally, consulting reputable sources such as literary analyses, academic papers, or commentaries on Catullus' poetry can provide further insights into the specific nuances and interpretations of the poem.