How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Book.Line). We used Robert Fitzgerald's translation.
Quote #10
As when one puts a stain of crimson dye
On ivory of India, or when
White lilies blush, infused with crimson roses,
So rich the contrast in her coloring seemed.
Desire stung the young man as he gazed,
Rapt, at the girl. He burned yet more for battle (12.92-101)
These lines, like those introducing Nisus and Euryalus, show the undeniable influence appearances have on love (OK, maybe this is a bit closer to plain old lust than love). They also continue the typical Aeneid motif in which being in love makes you act like a complete fool – as, in this case. It makes Turnus eager for battle with Aeneas, which winds up getting him killed.