Misinterpreting a compound name. The origin of the <i>agnomen</i> Publicola in Dionysius of Halicarnassus and Plutarch

Abstract This study examines the linguistic and historical development of the agnomen Publicola, attributed to Publius Valerius, a prominent figure of early republican Rome. The analysis focuses on various interpretations of the name’s linguistic composition, particularly its breakdown into populum and colere. By critically evaluating the work of scholars such as Skutsch and Lazzeroni, the research highlights the evolving perspectives on Latin compounds in -cola, traditionally seen as late creations influenced by Greek. Through a re-examination of ancient sources, especially Dionysius of Halicarnassus and Plutarch, the paper investigates how Roman annalistic traditions contributed to the embellishment and reinterpretation of Publius Valerius’s agnomen. Ultimately, the study reveals how misinterpreting of historical sources has shaped the legend surrounding Publicola, and how onomastic and philological analysis can correct these misconceptions, providing a clearer understanding of the linguistic data around which mythical narratives have developed concerning the historical figure of Publius Valerius.