Davus.—One falsehood brings on another: I hear it whispered about that she is a citizen of Athens.
The citizens of Athens were called γηγενεῖς, or sons of the earth, and ἀστοὶ. They were called also τεττιγες, or τεττιγοφορους, wearers of grasshoppers; this appellation, authors have derived differently. Tretzes thinks it was to designate them as fluent orators. Lucian considers it merely as a distinction to divide them from the slaves: and others say, it was because they thought that grasshoppers sprung from the earth; and therefore chose them for the symbol of a people who pretended to the same origin: vide [Note 154]. The Athenians were called also πολίται. The citizens were divided by Cecrops into four tribes, (vide Poll., B. 3. 64,) each tribe was divided into three classes, and each class into thirty families. The names of the tribes were, 1. Κεκροπὶς, 2. Αὐτόχθων, 3. Ἀκταία, 4. Παραλιά. These names were afterwards changed by Cranaus, (vide Plut. in Solon,) and also by Ericthonius and Erectheus. When the number of the inhabitants increased, new tribes were added. To obtain the Athenian citizenship was deemed so glorious, that foreigners of the very first rank eagerly sought this distinction; which it was extremely difficult to gain: as the Athenians would never admit any persons but those who had signalized themselves by their virtue and bravery.
[NOTE 181.]
Davus.—And that he will be compelled to marry her.
The Athenian laws did not allow of polygamy: if Glycera, therefore, had been proved to be a citizen, her marriage with Pamphilus would have been valid; and Philumena, if married to him, must have been divorced. We are to suppose, that the apprehension of this circumstance induces Chremes to break off the marriage.
[NOTE 182.]
Davus. (half aloud.)—He has heard all: what an accident.
——Audistin’ obsecro?
These words are usually read as addressed directly to Chremes; but it appears more probable that Terence intended Davus to speak them as if he meant no one to hear what he said, and yet contrive to raise his voice loud enough for Chremes to overhear him pretend to be alarmed, lest what Mysis had been saying should do any mischief. This feigned consternation was calculated to strengthen Chremes’ belief of the genuineness of the previous scene.
[NOTE 183.]
This impudent wench ought to be taken hence and punished.
——Hanc jam oportet in cruciatum abripi.