A BILINGUAL TORTOISE IN CLAUDIUS ETRUSCUS’ BATH: STATIUS, SILVAE 1.5.11

Abstract This note draws attention to Statius’ use of the Greek loanword chelys in Siluae 1.5. It suggests that Statius’ use of chelys can be clarified through reference to the equivalent Latin word, testudo , indicating not just a musical instrument but also a component of the Roman bath system (Vitr. De arch. 5.10.1). This contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of bilingual wordplay in Statius, in which the wider meanings of a Latin word can be applied to expand the semantic range of a Greek one, and of Statius’ engagement with the material world of his patrons in the Siluae.