Convention or Originality?: The Attributes of Christian Children in Latin Epigraphy

Abstract

The Latin tomb inscriptions of Christian children show surprising variety in the phrases and epithets used to describe the deceased. While some are conventional attributes expressing the innocence or piety of the child, others are more imaginative, original and even unique. The inscriptions record qualities such as smallness of the child; modesty; intelligence; devotion to God. They lament the child's premature death, but forsee its future in heaven. The inscriptions also reflect the grief and love of bereaved parents, suggesting genuine emotions.

Keywords

• children
• Christianity
• Emotion
• Epithets
• Fate
• Epigraphy