Sappho

Sappho (/ˈsæfoʊ/; Greek: Σαπφώ Sapphṓ [sap.pʰɔ̌ː]; Aeolic Greek Ψάπφω Psápphō; c. 630–c. 570 BC) was an Archaic Greek poet from Eresos or Mytilene on the island of Lesbos. Known for her lyric poetry, Sappho's work was written to be sung while accompanied by musical instruments. In ancient times, she was widely regarded as one of the greatest lyric poets and was often referred to as the "Tenth Muse" and "The Poetess."

Life and Background

Sappho hailed from a wealthy family, but the details of her life remain largely obscure. Her parents' names are uncertain, though she is said to have had three brothers: Charaxos, Larichos, and Eurygios. Two of them, Charaxos and Larichos, are mentioned in the "Brothers Poem," which was discovered in 2014.

Poetry and Themes

Sappho wrote around 10,000 lines of poetry, but only a small fraction survives today, most of it in fragmentary form. Known works include "Ode to Aphrodite" and "Sappho 31" (also known as "Phainetai Moi"). While her lyric poetry has garnered the most attention, ancient commentators also claimed that she wrote elegiac and iambic poetry. Some epigrams attributed to her are now considered to be Hellenistic imitations of her style.

Ode to Aphrodite

The "Ode to Aphrodite" is the only complete poem by Sappho that has survived. It is a prayer to the goddess Aphrodite, asking for her aid in matters of love. The poem exemplifies Sappho's mastery in blending personal emotion with religious devotion.

Sappho 31 (Phainetai Moi)

"Sappho 31" is another significant fragment, often celebrated for its vivid depiction of love and desire. The poem describes the physical and emotional sensations experienced by the speaker upon seeing a beloved person.

Fragmentary Works

Other notable fragments include "Sappho 16" and "Sappho 44". "Sappho 16" explores the theme of beauty and love, while "Sappho 44" narrates the wedding of Hector and Andromache.

Sappho and Erinna in a Garden at Mytilene

"Sappho and Erinna in a Garden at Mytilene" is an 1864 watercolor painting by Simeon Solomon. The painting portrays Sappho with her contemporary and fellow poet Erinna, capturing an intimate moment between the two. The artwork adds to the romantic and emotional aura that surrounds Sappho's legacy.

Cultural Impact

Sappho's influence has spanned millennia, affecting both ancient and modern literature. She has been cited in works ranging from the Greek Anthology to contemporary collections of erotic and romantic poetry. Her association with the island of Lesbos has also led to the term "lesbian" being derived from her homeland, reflecting the themes of female homoeroticism in her work.

Sappho Painter

Even the visual arts have felt her impact. The Sappho Painter was an Attic black-figure vase painter active around 510–490 BCE, named for a vase depicting the poet herself.