Page 49, Question 1

How is Ovid's graphic depiction of Pyramus's suicide quite essential to the story line?



Ovid's graphic depcition of Pyramus's suicide demonstrates the irony of the whole situation. The reason why Pyramus and Thisbe fled the city and its restricting walls, were to be able to unite and be together. However, as soon as they escaped the physical city walls, they encountered other metaphorical 'walls' that we have discussed in class, which continue to prevent them from being together. The situation is ironic because by fleeing the city in search of freedom to love, Pyramus recklessly commits suicide. Also, Ovid specifically has Pyramus stab himself in the groin/genitals for a purpose. The groin area is where real intimacy occurs between two lovers, and it is, further even more ironic, that Pyramus stabs himself there as opposed to his chest, heart, or throat. Another reason why Pyramus may have stabbed himself in the groin is because the sensitivity of the area causes tremendous pain and suffering, which Pyramus desired due to the guilt and responsibility he felt for Thisbe's unfortunate "death."