Syphax is depicted as a Greek merchant. Pompeii was a bustling port town with a highly cosmopolitan population. Greek freedmen (former slaves) and traveling merchants frequently set up luxury shops selling imported pottery, glass, and marble sculptures from the eastern Mediterranean. The Art of Haggling
"I know," Alexander said. "Phidias was Greek. We Greeks are better than the Romans. We teach the Romans."
Cambridge Latin Course (CLC) Book 1, Stage 10: Statuae Context: This stage serves as the dramatic climax of the first book. Having spent previous stages establishing the daily life, the household, and the merchant activities of Caecilius and his family in Pompeii, Stage 10 shifts the focus to politics, social status, and the foreshadowing of the city's doom.
Here is the accurate, literal-yet-fluent translation of the Stage 10 "statuae" text.
Postumus inspects the offerings, leading to a discussion about Greek versus Roman tastes and the quality of the craftsmanship.
"spectā hanc statuam!" inquit Alexander. "haec statua est rēgulum fōrmōsum. Graecus artifex eam fēcit."
Alexander, postquam hoc audīvit, valdē ērubuit. nihil dīxit. Quīntus rīsit et amīcum ad palaestram dūxit. English Translation of "statuae"
Alexander represents the "learned Greek" who finds Roman tastes perhaps a bit unrefined or imitative. This tension was a real part of Pompeian life. Many of the finest statues found in the ruins of Pompeii were either direct copies of Greek originals or created by Greek artists living in Italy. Study Advice for Stage 10 If you are struggling with the "Statuae" translation:
"Hello, Syphax!" says Postumus. "Hello, Postumus!" replies Syphax. "You are an honest merchant. I am looking for a statue."
Postumus looks at the status. The statue is a Roman goddess. Postumus does not praise the statue.
If you're working on the translation yourself, follow these steps for a smooth process: