Callinus facts for kids
Callinus (who lived in the mid-7th century BC) was an ancient Greek poet from the city of Ephesus in Asia Minor. He was known for writing a type of poetry called elegy.
Callinus lived during a time when his home, Ephesus, and other Greek cities in Asia Minor were facing serious threats. The Cimmerians, an invading group, were attacking the region. His own people were also fighting against the Magnesians. These tough times greatly influenced his poetry. He used his poems to try and inspire the people of Ionia (where Ephesus was) to be brave and fight for their homeland.
Callinus's Poetry
Callinus wrote a special kind of poetry called elegiac poetry. This style often used pairs of lines that rhymed or had a similar rhythm. He was one of the first poets to write in this style.
His poems were often about encouraging soldiers to fight bravely for their country. This type of poetry is called "martial exhortation elegy." Other famous poets like Tyrtaeus also wrote in this style.
Only a few parts of Callinus's poems have survived over time. One of the longest pieces we have is 21 lines long. It's a powerful message to his fellow Ephesians, urging them to stand strong against the invading Cimmerians.
A Famous Poem
Here is a famous part of one of his poems, showing his strong message:
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It is honorable and splendid for a man to fight |
τιμῆέν τε γάρ ἐστι καὶ ἀγλαὸν ἀνδρὶ μάχεσθαι |
This poem means that it is a great and honorable thing for a man to fight for his country, his children, and his wife against enemies. It also reminds us that death will come when the Moirai (who were goddesses of fate in Greek mythology) decide it's time.
Poems like this often used ideas and language from famous epic poems like Homer's Iliad. It is believed that Callinus would perform his poetry at gatherings called symposia. These were social events where people would eat, drink, and discuss important topics, often with entertainment like poetry readings.
