pamphilus de amore

"Pamphilus, de Amore": An Introduction and TranslationAuthor(s): Thomas Jay GarbatySource: The Chaucer Review, Vol. 2, No. 2 (Fall, 1967), pp. 108-134Published by: Penn State University PressStable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/25093043 .Accessed: 16/02/2011 17:15

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PAMPHILUS, DE AMORE An Introduction and Translation

by Thomas Jay Garbaty

For medieval literature in general, and perhaps Chaucer studies in

particular, the anonymous Latin dramatic poem Pamphilus, de Amore

must be regarded as one of the most influential and important of all the

many pseudo-Ovidian productions concerning the "arts of love." This

short work of 780 lines was composed toward the end of the twelfth

century. The oldest references to it are Anglo-Norman: the Enseigne ments de Robert de Ho (1192-1204) and the Liber parabolarum de

Odo de Ciringtonia. Alexander Neckham does not yet mention it in

the last quarter of the twelfth century among the books expounded at

Paris. By 1215 the poem was already in the repertoire of minstrels, as

noted by Guiraut de Calanson. Thus, the date of origin can be put at

1200.1

The Pamphilus quickly achieved an extraordinary popularity. The

second half of the thirteenth century saw it read, quoted, and antholo

gized in England, France, Provence, and Italy. We have a record of it

in Holland by 1250, Germany in 1280, and there is even a translation

in Norwegian from this time. By 1330 it was known in Castile. After

1300, however, references to it diminish in Europe. Only in England do they survive until 1500. It is thought, therefore, that the drama was

originally an Anglo-Latin production.2 Citations from the Pamphilus became the stock in trade of poets, and our vocabulary owes it the

word "pamphlet," perhaps the best evidence of its wide circulation.

Most important, though, is the influence that the Pamphilus had

on the major writers and works of the Middle Ages. Boccaccio used

the hero, Pamphilus, as the seducer in his romance Fiammetta, and

thought that the author (called in the Middle Ages Pamphilus or Pam

philius, a name originally borrowed from Terence) was one of the older

Italian poets.3 Two translations might be mentioned: the lesser French

work by Jean Brasdefer, Pamphile et Galat?e (1300-1315), and the

very important adaptation by Juan Ruiz, in the Don Melon-Dona En

drina episode of his Libro de R?en Amor (MSS 1330, 1343). The

1. Joseph Morawsky, ed. Pamphile et Galat?e (Paris, 1917), p. 14.

2. Morawsky, p. 13.

3. Corazzini, ed. Le Lettere Edite e In?dite di Messer Giovanni Boccaccio

(Firenze, 1877), p. 194.

PAMPHILUS, DE AMORE 109

Castilian Archpriest of Hita specifically mentions the Pamphilus as his source. The probability exists that Chaucer had seen this work,4

though more in the main stream of the English poet's development is

the influence of the Pamphilus on the Roman de la Rose. Neither

Guillaume de Lorris nor Jean de Meun ever mentions the Pamphilus

by name, but Ernest Langlois has noted such numerous parallels and

similarities of incident between the two works that there can be no

doubt of the debt the Roman owes to the Latin author. Specifically the Anus, the Old Woman, in the Pamphilus is the ancestor of La

Vieille in the Roman.5

Finally, both Gower and Chaucer quote the Latin "elegiac poem." Of the three references to "Pamphilles" in Chaucer's Tale of Melibee

(CT, B2 2746, 2748, 2751) only the first is correct: "And therfore seith

Pamphilles: 'If a net-herdes doghter,' seith he, 'be riche, she may chesen of a thousand men which she wol take to hir housbonde; / for, of a thousand men, oon wol nat forsaken hire ne refusen hire.'

" (Pam

philus, 11. 53-54). But Chaucer refers to the Pamphilus at much greater

length in the Franklins Tale: "Under his ?Aurelyus's] brest he baar it moore secree ?the love for Dorigen] / Than evere dide Pamphilus for

Galathee." Chaucer then elaborates on this image from the opening of

the Pamphilus (the arrow hidden in the breast) by mentioning how

dangerous the cure of a "sursanure" (a wound that is closed over on

the surface) is in surgery, if one cannot probe the hidden object (F 1109 ff.). These quotations give adequate evidence that Chaucer

knew the Pamphilus well, if more were needed than the extraordinary parallels between the Latin poem and the first three books of Chaucer's Troilus and Criseyde.

In many ways, the Pamphilus is the skeleton of the first books of the Troilus. Rudimentary in form, and stripped of the humanity which is the genius and life of Chaucer's work, the Pamphilus yet appears to serve as one of the foundations upon which the incidents, the dialectic, and the theme of the Troilus seem to rest. Many aspects of the plot,

missing in the Filostrato by Boccaccio, but found in Chaucer, are also

present in the Pamphilus and the adaptation of Juan Ruiz. I have treated this problem, as also much of the above information, in depth elsewhere.6 Suffice it to say that, after the primary influence of the

4. Cf. my article "The Pamphilus Tradition in Ruiz and Chaucer/' PQ, XLVI

(October, 1967), 457-70.

5. Ernest Langlois, Origines et Sources du Roman de la Rose (Paris, 1891). pp. 27-31.

6. See note 4.

110 THOMAS JAY GARBATY

Filostrato, the Pamphilus group (including Roman de la Rose and

Ruiz's Libro de R?en Amor) may be second in importance as a source

of the Troilus. Diagrammatically this might be presented in the fol

lowing way:

I Filostrato II Pamphilus

Ruiz, Libro

Troilus ^Troilus

Since there seems to be no translation of the Pamphilus extant in

English, I have attempted one in prose here.7 The Latin original abounds in all aspects of medieval rhetoric as outlined by Geoffrey de

Vinsauf, in his Poetria Nova, specifically repetitio, paradox, oxymoron, alliteration. It is obvious that the author sacrificed much dramatic

tension and liveliness for elegance of style. Any attempt to reproduce this in modern English would transform what was probably meant to

be sublime into the ridiculous. I have kept the great majority of end

stopped lines, and the methodical, leisurely pace of the original, which

in some ways reminds one of the movement in classical tragedy. The

indented lines run, in the Latin, to fourteen syllables, as against sixteen

for the others. But these figures may vary up to three syllables, more

or less. The main intent of the translation, however, is to show the plot

development and importance for Chaucer source studies of a work

that was once glorious and honored in its prime, but which has fallen

onto lean years, and generally been forgotten. In the words of the Anus :

Divitias habui multas dum floruit aetas;

Copia discesset, pluribus indigeo.

7. The three most easily accessible editions of the work are: A. Baudouin, ed.

Pamphile, ou VArt d'etre aim?, com?die latine du Xe si?cle (Paris, 1874),

Jacobus Ulrich, ed. Pamphilus, Codici Turicensi ( Zurich, 1893 ) and G. Cohen,

La "Com?die" latine en France au 12e si?cle, 2 vols. (Paris, 1931). I have

used the second in my translation.

PAMPHILUS, DE AMORE

Pamphilus:

I am wounded, and bear the arrow deep in my breast;

My injury and grief wax in me ever, Yet still I dare not name my destroyer,

Nor do I allow my hurt to be seen.

From this I fear, in the future, danger of even greater harm 5

Which no physician has the strength to cure.

Which path is the best, that I should take first? Alas for me! What is there to do? I am so very troubled.

I complain, and have the most just cause to grieve When I perceive such few means of help. 10

But since there is much that hurts, my aim is much to inquire, For skill often profits him who has it in power.

If, in my face, I should discover my sorrow, What it is, whence the blow comes, and who struck it,

Would I not then destroy, for myself, the greatest hope of redress? 15

Hope itself restores, but also deceives the possessor. Yet if I should totally hide my emotion and grief,

And never seek to lessen my hurt,

Perhaps, then, greater ills than these might occur, And force me, straightway, to die. 20

Thus I believe it were better to show my pain, for a hidden fire Burns more fiercely, but an open one is reduced.

Therefore I shall speak to Venus, who is our life and our death, And she shall guide me, with all her counsel.

Pamphilus to Venus:

Unique hope of our life, illustrious Venus, hail!

You, who can make all submit to your power, Who are feared by high dukes, whom potent kings serve,

Grant me, oh kindly one, my prayerful wishes. Be not adamant, nor resist my supplications,

But do what I ask; I demand very little. I have not said much, but my great pain is visible in me,

And it will not be hard for you to grant me your aid.

Just nod your assent, say but so much?already I shall be happy, And all things will turn favorable for me!

25

30


It is my neighbor, a girl?I cannot help my desires, 35 If your kindness does not relieve me.

For the closer the fire, the greater is felt the heat; At a distance the hurt is much less.

She is said to be the fairest of all her group, And either love deceives me, or she is superior to all. 40

With unerring arrows she has pierced my heart, And the arrows I cannot remove, even with force.

From these wounds my sorrow grows every hour, Until my complexion pales; my strength and fairness decrease.

I have told no one of this, nor who it is that wounds me. 45

The motive was right that hindered me from speech: One says, and this I acknowledge, that her birth is more noble than

mine.

For that reason I feared to confess my desire.

It is also said, truly, that she is more wealthy than I, And riches often desire a great name and honors. 50

But I lack honors, qualities, and much wealth, And what I do possess, through my own work I acquire.

If she is rich, any ox-herd's daughter Can choose from a thousand her desired husband.

This girl is so fair that I feel my limbs tremble, 55

And I am quite unable to speak of my love.

Bold in her beauty, a woman conceives great pride, And does not recognize the restraint of moderation.

I have well tried to remove these cares from my heart, But instantly my love burns ever more fiercely. 60

Behold, you see my misfortune, lo, you recognize my danger!

Therefore, I entreat you: be gracious to my prayers. But you don't answer, nor lend your ears to my speech,

Nor do your clear eyes show me a light! Either remove your arrows from my heart, 65

Or heal my fierce wounds with your subtle skill.

Who can bear the burden of so much distress,

When the lady grants no reward for my tears?

Just now, when I beseech you, an uneasy anguish assails me,

And this grief arouses my continual prayers. 70

Venus to Pamphilus:

Then Venus told him: great labor wins over all,


And, in all ways, you may take joy through the strength of your effort.

And fear not to show your feelings, Hardly one in a thousand will then deny you.

She, whom you entreat imploringly, may first most harshly refuse

you. 75

But this tartness is of little importance. For truly, that which the seller may first deny,

These salable goods will always be gained by an obstinate buyer. Nor would the sailor traverse the sea, if he were fearful

When the turgid waves first broke at his boat. 80

Therefore, if first she does not favor your words, Skill or effort will yet bring about her response.

Skill crushes pride and destroys strong cities; Skill crumbles towers; skill lightens the burden,

And fish are caught by skill from the clear waves. 85

Thus too a man may cross, dry of foot, the sea:

In all things can skill and effort be of help.

By his talents a poor man may often be nourished, And, though just, the anger of princes may thus be appeased.

The guilty can save his body and power, 90 And he rejoices in riches, who once wept, being poor,

Or rides on horse now, who used to travel on foot. That which parents, even, are unable to give,

Effort soon provides to the man who labors. If at first she rejects your courtship with vigor, 95

Nevertheless you should be prepared to serve her. Thus you may conquer her tenuous blame,

And make of a former enemy soon a friend. Seek those places that she often frequents.

If you cannot appear to be noble, then attempt to be gay, 100 For youth always likes pleasure, and jesting words,

And through such feelings young people are drawn to love. Nor ever forget to show her a cheerful mien,

For a man seems more handsome when gay.

Don't be too silent, nor talk too much? 105 A maid often despises a man for little;

Whereas sweet eloquence arouses and nourishes love, And lightly it softens cruel hearts.

If the place is right, in mock violence assail her, And she will soon give of herself, what you hardly dared hope. 110


Sometimes shame forbids her to disclose her feelings, But often she will most deny what she wishes to have.

To lose her virginity, by force, she deems nobler

Than to say, "do with me as you desire!" But of this be most careful: if your household is mean, 115

Let her be ignorant of your state and poverty. A clever man may appear to live high on little,

And he hides his tears with a smiling face.

What you are not you can simulate, through appearance and words:

The greatest success derives from just a little skill. 120

In the world there is much that the neighbors don't know, And of this there are many suitable things to tell her.

Remember that, sometimes, lies profit much, At other times, to say all may hurt you greatly.

And those men and women, household servants, that have her ear, 125

Be sure to entice with your words and gifts. So that always in turn, they'll speak good words of you,

And constantly sing your praise to their mistress.

Then, when in doubt, she ponders at heart her doubtful thoughts, And does not know whether or not to comply with your will, 130

Then is she tormented much by temptation, And then, victorious, you may soon gain your love.

To affect this human feeling or that one

Is a light task, while the mind is in doubt.

Also it seems well that a go-between were amongst you, 135

Who prudently brings that which each of you wishes, For old people jealously discern the acts of the young,

And at once hope to stall them with quarrelsome words.

Therefore start! Time has given, and will give you more than you

hope.

You need fear nothing, about anything you dread. 140

Now I shall speak no further with you?zealously you will win your love.

Once started, a thousand roads lead to your goal!

Pamphilus:

It is easy for the healthy to solace the sick, But the infirm will not less feel the presence of woe!

The counsel of Venus has not lightened my grief, 145

And love reigns ever in my sad heart.


Thus far, all hope of assistance rested in her; This hope has now vanished; grief alone remains.

Wretched, I cannot escape. The pilot has abandoned me at sea.

I search for a port, and I cannot find one. 150

But what shall I do now? My present hope lies in her sight, The time has come, finally, that we talk together.

Pamphilus beholds Calathea:

My God, how she is fair, as she walks with her hair unbound!

And so perfect this spot, to speak to her now!

But sudden, how many fears come upon me, 155

My speech and thoughts seem to fail,

My strength is gone, my hand and my feet do tremble!

Thus stupefied I am put out of countenance.

I had prepared much in my mind to tell her of love, But fear has banished what I wanted to say. 160

I am not what I was, I hardly know myself?

My voice is but ill controlled, yet still I will speak.

Pamphilus to Galathea:

My cousin, from another town, sends you a thousand regards By me, and renders her service!

She knows you but little, through name and words, 165 Yet she would like to see you, if the time could be found.

My parents wish to retain me in that town

Which overflows with my noble relations. To a girl most richly endowed they hope to betroth me,

And she easily bears many other superior traits. 170 Yet I esteem them all less, you alone have pleased me,

For you I'd reject all women on earth!

Galathea:

Ah, they speak in jest! Youth always talks thus, Words spoken in game need not move one to quarrel.


But now, let us in turn reveal our hearts' secrets, 175

Except that no one must know of our speech! Let us pledge our faith to that: this done I may talk.


Since I have started first, I'll be the first to speak. But we must be obliged to confess our true feelings.

In all the world you are to me the most favored! 180

Three years have passed since I started to love you, Yet had I not dared to express my thoughts.

But a wise man does not long speak to deaf ears, Nor should we converse a long time in vain.

I love you firmly, and I won't say more 185

Until you tell me, henceforth, what your own will is.

Galathea to Pamphilus:

Thus many men by much effort hope to deceive many maidens, And many are cheated by a tricksome love!

You had thought to fool me with your discourse and craft, But I am not one to be so cleverly trapped! 190

Seek others, more fitted for your guilty behavior, Whose heads may be turned with your fraud and deceit.


Often the sins of the wicked impede the acts of the just. Not my guilt, but that of another now harms me.

Still, listen to me as a kindhearted favor, 195

And let me speak just a bit to my mistress:

I swear by God on earth and the saints in heaven,

My words to you are not false or deceptive! For me there is no one on earth more beloved,

And no one appears dearer to my thought and heart. 200

But I speak in vain; your naive mind and your youth Cannot distinguish, as yet, between harm and good?

Although youth perceives much more keenly than age.

For, though old people see much, the young see more,

And you should recognize, young as you are, 205

Who I am, what my condition, and whence comes my love!

In all things prudence is taught through practice, Practice and skill teach all a man knows.

I pray you permit me to come and go, and to speak, To converse with you, and that we be much together. 210

Not without discourse can we learn our innermost feelings. But now you yourself may say, what you deem is right.



Come and go, talk if you will, I won't forbid you nor any. All travellers, everywhere, may rightfully pass on the road.

It is honorable and fitting that a girl answer to questions, 215

Or calls by name whomever she sees.

I grant it enough, to permit you or others

To come here, always provided my honor be safe.

Maids are allowed to hear and reply,

Though they must ever act according to measure. 220

If you speak playfully, in like manner I answer, But if your words injure I will not allow them.

You ask that we meet, but I decline to be with you alone.

To meet in private is not very proper, For in secret spots lurk dangers; ill repute rises from thence. 225

In public view, and prudently, I'll be glad to talk with you.


You've granted me now not small, but great favors!

For discourse with you suffices me quite. I cannot give, for such kindness, the proper thanks,

Words are inadequate to express your mercy. 230

But the time and the place may one day come

When you will see who your true friend is.

I don't want to displease you, I dare say nothing, Still, I so much beg you now, openly, for a little thing:

That we may embrace, kiss and caress 235 Each other when the occasion is right!


Embraces nourish too far a forbidden love, And kisses often deceive the girl herself.

Yet to this alone 111 consent, but you must not go further, For to no one but you do I grant such a favor. 240

But just now my parents both come from the temple, And I must return home so as not to be blamed!

Other fitting occasions will come, when we shall talk together. Let each, in the mean time, think of the other.

Pamphilus:

A more joyful man than I never lived, nor is found on earth! 245


My anchor is finally fixed on the shore.

God, and Nature, have suddenly made me most happy, And I return a rich man, when before I was poor.

Not in vain did she ask that I think of her, Whom no effort can tear from my mind. 250

She does not feel as I do, nor knows my desire, Yet as I think of her, let her but remember me!

Many obstacles are before me, and much that still keeps me restrained

About which I don't know any counsel.

If I am too eager, too frequent with words and jests, 255 Garrulous rumor may ban us from the accustomed streets.

Yet if no zeal strengthens our friendship, Love may not flourish so well from its roots.

Fire ever increases, the greater the amount of fuel?

Once remove the wood from the hearth, forthwith the fire

decreases. 260

Thus always love grows with use, and must always die without it.

Unnourished love will ever be weakened.

Now I am troubled by so many cares and dangers:

My mind is distracted, I can't tell in how many ways. I predict no success in this affair for me, 265

Nor can I think of any sound plan of action.

Sometimes Fortune opposes the deeds of men, And prohibits any design from succeeding.

But, as she discourages some, she renders others happy.

Everyone follows this rule in the world. 270

All things are bestowed and granted through God and our effort, But without God no labor on earth can profit.

Therefore, may God be the guardian, the guide of my task,

May He govern my work and intention.

As go-between I'll choose neither brother nor cousin, 275

For these I cannot easily trust.

A cousin knows not how to help in good faith, Nor even a brother, when struck by the fury of love.

If such little may harm, the wise man avoids it, Therefore I must travel a different road. 280

Close by here dwells an old woman, subtle and crafty, A most apt enough servant in the arts of Venus.

My cares postponed, I'll go seek her out, And of my purpose advise her.


Pamphilus to Old Woman:

Your fame is praised, and the name of your goodness! 285

A certain matter disturbs me, and I ask your advice.

Listen to what I say in good will and kindness, But let no one else know this without my consent!

I love my neighbor, Galathea, with whom you are acquainted, And, if I mistake not her words, she also loves me. 290

But I cannot speak as I wish, and I avoid thousand dangers, Most anxious, I fear that all things will hurt me on earth.

Rumors are born from nothing, but they won't quickly die out; As much as we belie them, they still flourish at a run.

Just a few words can harm the unfortunate, and a thousand evils

will follow, 295

Thus my affair, my work and hope remain in doubt. You see our misfortune! Let your voice go between us:

I beg that your intercourse hide our offence.

Old Woman to Pamphilus:

Another loves whom you love, and begs the same things of

Yet he does not have my approval: He is indeed most honest and worth a decent wife,

But I am displeased by what he disposes to give! He had promised me old dresses, along with a fur,

But his cheap gift has cost him my service.

Presented in time, gifts grant and obtain many favors, Their nature destroys even justice and laws.

What you ask, I believe, you can't get without me, For the girl is completely under my power.

Her confidante and her guide I am always, And she follows in all things my counsel.

But I can't speak with you longer; other cares press me on.

Let each keep his own path and accomplish his task.


But this task stands foremost! I have no other cares, If you give her to me you've done all that I wish.

It is often one needs buy the labor of others, 315

But, once bought, the work should get adequate payment. Believe me, I shall not disappoint your effort

Since I must have it, if you help me out.

me.

300

305


I ask only this, state what reward you desire, And whatever you tell me, 111 grant. 320


They whom poverty presses desire and beg many things! I shame to say how much I am now in need.

In my youth I acquired great wealth, But this abundance has vanished; I am the more in want.

My weakness and age have worn me thin, 325

Neither skill nor effort can profit me now.

If you feel that your suit is advanced through my help, I ask this for me, that you open your house.


My house and the rest I freely grant you,

May all my riches be yours to command! 330

I am most happy that we are joined in agreement, That these acts persuade us to mutual trust.

Hence, I beg you, be careful in your craft and labor, That you proceed with sound judgment in this affair.

Foresight considers both end and beginning, 335

In the outcome of things rest all virtues or crimes.

Therefore, watch what you say from beginning to end; Your words will have more strength if thought out before.

Old Woman:

There lives in this town a most handsome youth Who is honored in all things for noble behavior! 340

A better, more charming never was in our time, So well he supports my poverty.

He surpasses in goodness all those of his age, This Pamphilus, and excels his companions in praise.

He can be foolish with the stupid, and mild as a lamb to the meek. 345

A wise man justly withstands acts of folly. Youth of such honesty are not found in this town!

He does not devour, like a glutton, the wealth he acquires, And he is a man most able, for noble was his birth.

Only sweet fruit drops from a superior tree. 350

Nature frequently marks a race with distinction,

Thus, often, the son resembles his father.


Behold, I see Galathea stand outside her door!

Perhaps she has heard what I was just saying?

Old Woman to Galathea:

I did not think, Galathea, that there was anyone here! 355

However, it was the absolute truth that I spoke. This Pamphilus surpasses, for certain, all in this town,

So exceedingly well he governs his life. Ever his honor, his praise, his glory increases,

And no one begrudges his merit. 360 He is very wealthy, yet not thereby proud,

And his fortune comes not from ill gain. He is the one, Galathea, that I wish were your husband;

You'd want him also, if you knew a good thing! I told him my wish, but he did not propose it. 365

In my own mind I feel you should be together. Your birth, goodness, the handsome features of you both

Lead me to judge that you are meant for each other. But we now derive ease from mere idle words,

Though small matters, at times, move joyful events. 370 A spark can give rise to huge conflagrations,

And a happy outcome may stem from a poor beginning. My mind conceived the start of these things,

And thus I spoke; henceforth we may begin our game! But if your thoughts and heart are moved by all this, 375

If you are pleased, or rather displeased by my speech, I beg you to tell me; I won't breathe a word that I said

If you wish it concealed, or 111 talk if you want to.

Tell me, don't hesitate, leave off your foolish shame; Here shame derives only from rusticity! 380

Galathea to Old Woman:

Neither country foolishness nor shame deters me.

Rather I wonder, to what end is your speech? I ask me whether chance sent you or

Pamphilus, and whether your message demands a reward?


Always the sins of the evil obstruct the acts of the good, 385 And men often suffer an undeserved punishment!


Though I am poor, I seek no such payment, Even in poverty I have adequate means.

From the beginning I told you, my own mind conceived this, There is no confidante, and no one else knows it. 390

If you both want to meet, it can be well arranged, Each can receive the other without feeling shame.

He is noble; indeed you are not less so, Each of your families is well known to me.

He is fairer than his companions; you, more beautiful than yours. 395

When similar graces suit, one is always pleased.

Equal youth and equal wealth agree to this union, And if common talk learn it, all would approve.

Since you are fitted in all things, you can justly consort.

There is nothing you lack, with the exception of love. 400


What you now tell me I must relate to my friends

With whose assent I will choose my husband.

Speak first to them?either Pamphilus or you? To them this matter will seem much more pleasant!


For this marriage, of course, you must gain the consent of your

parents,

But in the meantime, your passion strives with his.

Venus influences the heart of youth by ingenious ways, In her devotion all may gain honor.

She inspires the mind, gives to the free, detests the miser,

Joy follows her steps; she puts sadness to flight. The great worth of her service may never be told.

If you really doubt this, you're just a wench from the country!


The laws of Venus soon cause a virgin to lose her honor; Boundless are ever their passion and fury.

The fierce arrows of Cupid inflict no slight wounds, 415

Every young girl fears his evil seductions.

And gossip often accuses an innocent maiden.

Voracious envy never ceases to slander the world!

405

410


I would grant what you ask, did I not fear rumor's tongue, Which is always the sharpest in such affairs. 420


For certain, much ill fame is spread in these matters, But truth ever will out, and gossip will disappear.

I will quiet your fear of murmurs and blame of talk,

Wisely 111 protect you and your amorous play; For I know the customs of Venus, and all her art, 425

Thus will all things be safe through my talent.

When, therefore, I see him, advise me what I should say: If you tell me beforehand, I may then speak more surely.


I don't know whether to confess to you my desire and secret, For deceit, everywhere, has laid traps and snares. 430

Yet I'd like to observe your words and good faith, And in which direction your art will draw me!

Pamphilus himself just now asked for my love, And a true friendship has joined us together!

But I ask you, conceal this, reveal it only to him, 435 But don't attempt to tell of this matter straightway.

He must first be tested in many endeavors, And perhaps what I said he may tell you himself.

But now, go quickly I beg you, and work all with caution, And tomorrow tell me everything that he said today! 440


Men are ofttimes disappointed in their hope and effort: Our business, Pamphilus, does not progress as we wish!

Much too late have you summoned me to your aid, For my skill and labor cannot advance you now.

The matter is certain, Galathea is readied for marriage, 445

Indeed, I saw a magnificent dress prepared in her house. There are a hundred reasons why I suspect this,

Though her parents have, until now, kept it hid. I ask you, therefore: accept what I say like a sensible man.

Dismiss the impossible; strive for what can be achieved. 450



Alas for me, my body's strength and faculty are routed!

Neither my mind nor my tongue serves me further!

Unhappy one! There is no more power in my limbs, Which refuse to perform their normal functions.

My own hope now harms me, through which Venus once clung to

my soul. 455

Hope has departed afar, but the fire itself is still present.

My vessel nowhere perceives its harbor, Nor can my anchor anywhere feel the ground!

My sorrow knows not where to seek consolation.

Galathea alone produces my grievous burden; 460

She is the cause of my death, and of my life.

If I cannot possess her, I would rather die!


What folly! What madness! Why does this foolish grief oppress you? Such groans will never gain you reward!

Temper your weeping with prudence and measure, 465

Dry your tears, and plan what to do.

Great confidence conceives supreme boldness, And often produces a skillful man.

With knowledge and zeal one can surmount many perils;

Work, skill, and alertness may perhaps help you yet! 470


But what effort, alas, may overcome so much trouble?

My hope has vanished completely; imminent is her wedding hour.

Not I, but her living husband will now marry her, And to violate the marriage bed is a crime.

All to no purpose has been my exertion, 475

And my cares have wasted their artful efforts.

No day brings me light, nor night any peace. A vain love ever consumes me, wretch that I am!


Often a great distress disappears in an instant, After small rains fierce winds are abated, 480

And a clear day is more pleasant after long showers.


After severe illness one is more grateful for health. You can breathe now; anguish is gone, anger departed,

Great joy follows hard on your sadness: Your Galathea will grant all our wishes; 485

She has put herself wholly in our power!


Just as an affectionate, wise mother, with vain promises Persuades her weeping children, so they be quiet,

So you, perhaps, support me with false solace, That my severe grief depart from my sad heart? 490


The bird, just escaped from the hawk's fierce talon, Is at first doubtful, and in all places fears him.

But there is no reason for me to deceive you, And you'll find, all that I said is true.


If what you tell me is true, and she is telling the truth, 495

Then all sorrows fly from my heart!

Yet, not always does a beginning foretell a conclusion; Once started, the progress of work is often retarded by chance!


The course of Fortune is hid to the minds of men.

To know the future lies in God's power alone. 500

But to despair is to harm; earnest labor alone will fulfill one's desire.

Wisdom and vigilance lead to success.


All labor and hope are governed by fickle fate, But hope itself increases after a good start.

Can you not tell whether she loves me or not? 505

Hardly may love hide the heart's inmost secrets.


With all her mind and heart she attends my words when I speak!


Whatever I say she receives with utmost delight. She even embraces my neck with her arms;

All that you ask me to tell her she wishes to hear. 510

And when, in the course of talk, I mention your name, The mere sound of it suddenly moves her!

In the pleasure of my words she blushes and pales. If I am tired of speaking, she urges me on to tell more.

By these signs and others we can discover her love. 515

Indeed, she did not deny that she is your friend!


Now, through you, I see my hope turn to success!

And my glory flourishes with your kind help. But, if sometimes strenuous labor may clarify doubt,

Sluggish laziness will cancel out great opportunities. 520

Therefore, strive, as much as you can, to haste this affair, Lest slothful delay hinder your task!


Certain, I swear, your wish will be realized through me.

But your own promise, in my affair, is still vague. The mind often thinks contrary to our words, 525

Nor do our acts follow all that we speak. Vain promises, at times, exact paid labor,

And once you're happy, you may not give much!


It is a great sin, if the wealthy deceive the poor!

Also, if you are deceived, it is no glory of mine. 530

No, through my fault nor you, nor anyone, was ever betrayed, And common talk, if you listen, will impute no offense to me.

My steadfast honesty will assure you of trust, So that all that you fear will turn out securely.


Common folk of small talent always fear the might of the great; 535

It takes little effort to strip the rights of the poor, And everywhere, former promise is deprived of pretense,

Hidden as it is under numerous crafty tricks.


However, nothing may resist the chance of fate.

The sea often inspires fear, without being dangerous. 540

I entrust to Fortune your promised favors!

But the gifts that I promised you will receive.

Now it is right that I go plead with the girl, That she may want to come and talk with you privately here.

But, if my skill arranges a meeting between you, 545

And the situation is apt, I beg you to be a man!

The mind and heart of a lover are always unsure; A short, but courageous moment will achieve your desire.


A blazing fire cannot bury its light, Nor may Venus hide her vows. 550

The course of all your affairs is well known to me, And I can hardly retain my tears at the thought!

For I perceive well that you both love most unwisely,

By your violent grief is this business known.

Your pallid features demonstrate furtive passion, 555

As if a grievous labor had affected your skin.

Pamphilus, the wretched, is sad beyond measure.

What wicked hardness must he always suffer from you!

Night and day he produces childish labor, But the inflexible ground bears him no seed. 560

Who but a lunatic will cast his seed in the sand, When the pleasure of labor rests in its fruit?

First your beauty and then your words played him false;

Through these two was he wounded by violent love.

You have not been to him the promised cure, 565

And thus his grief seemed ever more serious.

Now that his plaint sees no relief, his pain is the greater. And you, also, are pleased to be quiet, burdened by ardor of love!

An unconfessed sorrow is often destructive and evil, Thus also a masked love will ever oppress you. 570

Therefore, what do you wish to do now? Think quickly And inform me of your intentions.


Venus, often cruel, has pierced me with arrows of fire.

She presses me sorely, and commands me to love.


Modesty and fear, on the contrary, urge me to virtue. 575

Torn by these feelings, I scarcely know how to act!


Gone be your fear! Here is no cause for fright; In this matter no one will play the traitor.

Pamphilus desires only to be your husband; All his care and effort tend but to this end.

A thousand ways did his features betray his violent passion,

And, weeping heavily, he spoke to me thus:

"Galathea is my pain, and the medicine for it; She alone can wound me, and return me to strength."

Pity forced me to weep for his tears, And yet, deep at heart, I was most happy;

I perceived that all was just as I wished it:

A common fire burns in your hearts.

But the flame hurts; I pray that you pity each other, Allow love, through my help, to join you together!


Your wish is mine also; I desire nothing more pleasant, If my parents also agree to this.

For it does not fit us to act so bold as you say, And if we would like to, we lack the occasion.

My mother is constantly with me as guardian; 595

The whole household observes me, both night and day.


Ingenious love loosens doors and gates; This crafty love surmounts all things that harm.

Lay aside your vain fear; cast off your childish emotion!

Sweet love, and I, ask that you come. 600


You are now intimate with my secret guilt;

This, and most of our stratagem, comes from you.

I beg, therefore, that you give me some useful advice,

Counsel which does not shame you to grant me.

It is a sin and a crime to lead a young girl astray; 605

Much honor, or reproach, will you gain through this.

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585

590



I do not hide, shamefaced, from wide and talkative gossip, Nor do my acts deny that I advised you well.

Now, should anyone wish to argue this case, Let him come forth and accuse me of mischief! 610

Let him gather his strength to contend with me,

Then, let him win quickly, or, if beaten, be quiet! But how soon I, with the help of reason, will curb him,

If he should attempt to use reason against me!

A good man and handsome, of noble birth and great wealth, 615

And sweet love to help us in part! Loquacious rumors and unkind murmurs will cease,

And you may walk all your ways without shame.


Oh God, into what turmoil is thrown the mind of a lover!

How fear, and great love, push him hither and yon. 620

Day and night these opposing feelings torment him, And what love desires, timidity always forbids.

He does not know what to do, and runs ever amiss; He strays and, thus erring, enlarges his wound of love.

Love has conquered me also, though I have continuously fought it, 625 And it presses me harder the more I resist.

Thus, troubled so long, and wearied by vain labor, I sadly confess that I prefer death to such life.


All fires increase through their own burning; Resistance just hardens the struggle and nourishes anger. 630

Thus Venus hurts and wars on herself, She grows, though she fosters her wounds in strife.

Therefore, you cannot with violence extinguish your flames; Your passion is milder, if left in peace.

Obey the commands of Venus as one of her soldiers, 635 Nor let struggle and labor work to your harm.

Foolish and rash, you sorely squander the joys of life, And your days will be filled with painful distraction.

Ever, in mind, will you see the face of your absent friend, And yours hell regard no less, by day and by night. 640


So much will each of you think of the other, That your condition, your hesitation will kill you both.

But I believe you think it easy to throw off your love?

Such a rupture will certainly end in cruel death.

Spare your youth, hold on to the joys of life! 645

One must feed the heart's cheer with gay pastime. You are just now alone, come, for your pleasure, a short time with me;

Here in my house youll find apples and nuts.

Hardly ever will one of my nooks be lacking in fruit, Of which you may taste whatever you please. 650

But I wonder now, who is battering the door with such force!

Is it a man or the wind? But I think it a man.

It is someone! Look, he observes us through the aperture! It is Pamphilus, I know his face so well!

With skill he has gradually drawn back the bolts; 655 He enters upon us! Why delay to speak out?


How furiously, Pamphilus, do you break open my gate! You are destroying the doors which I bought with my money.

What do you want; who has sent you to us?

Speak, if you've something to say, and quickly depart! 660

Pamphilus, embracing Galathea:

Oh Galathea, above all the cause of my bliss, Grant me a thousand kisses, after such long delay!

My ardor drinks them, but they relieve not my thirst; These tame pleasures, rather, excite it more fiercely.

Lo, all my joys I hold enclosed in my arms! 665

Behold, I embrace the sweet burden, to me so dear!

Happy chance that I directed my steps to this place, For in it dwells she, whom I love best.

Old Woman, withdrawing:

A neighbor calls! Ill talk with her and return soon,

For I greatly fear that she won't come to me. 670

What are you shouting? I hurry; 111 shut the door and I come,

Since no one remains here, but the empty house.

But I am busy; tell me quickly what you want to say; I can't walk any long distance with you.



Behold, sweet love, fresh youth, and this place 675

Urge us, Galathea, to nourish the joys of the heart!

Lo, Venus, the wanton, calls us to her delight, And commands us now to enter her service.

Why do I wait? Humbly I ask help of my vows for this act.

Now I beg that you patiently submit to my will. 680

Galathea, deflowered by Pamphilus:

Pamphilus, take away your hand; now you are sorely hurting your friend!

Already the old woman returns; don't touch me, Pamphilus!

Pamphilus, keep your hands off; you will be surely exhausted in vain! Your exertion is useless; what you ask cannot be.

Ah me, that a woman has ever such little strength; 685 How easily you can subdue both my hands!

Pamphilus, you are hurting my breasts with yours; It is a crime and a sin; why handle me so?

Desist, 111 cry out! What are you doing? I am badly betrayed by you. Wretch that I am, when returns that faithless old woman? 690

I entreat you, get up; the neighbors will hear our dispute. That old woman did ill to surrender me thus.

Never again will I, with you, be found in this place, Nor will the old woman deceive me, whatever she does!

You've won out in this business, despite my resistance; 695

However, between us all love is destroyed!


Let us both rest now, just a short time, While our horse pants, having run its course.

Why do you look at your lover with such scornful eyes;

Why is your face washed with such pitiful tears? 700 I am guilty in all this; punish me as you will,

And let the penalty even exceed my deserts.

Directly, with patience, I'll submit to whatever you ask. But if I did sin, the fault was not mine!

Let us seek, if you wish, an impartial verdict. 705 Should I be judged guilty or be acquitted?

Your passionate eyes, white flesh, and noble features, Your words, embraces, your sweet kisses, this spot,


These stimulated my crime, and gave it start.

Encouraged by these, my love overwhelmed me! 710

They increased my passion, inflamed my fury of lust.

Thus urged, I committed this impious act.

And this, worst of distractions, so upset my mind, That my good will was totally deaf to your pleas!

Rather, you deserve to be blamed of what you accuse me; 715

You were the source and heart of the evil.

Yet, such great anger should not exist between lovers;

And, if it does by chance come, let its duration be short!

Lovers should be indulgent of faults in each other;

Therefore, bear calmly the weight of our mutual sin. 720

When the old woman returns, stop your sad wailing, That she may not guess of our guilt in your tears.

Old Woman, returning:

With empty nonsense that woman kept me outdoors!

Like Marcus Cicero she'll succeed with her talk.

But why, Galathea, do your eyes brim with tears? 725

What does this mean? Whence comes this grief? While I was gone, what happened between you?

Galathea, I beg you, tell me all from the start!


Yes, it suits you to ask now, as if you did not know, When the whole plan of this trick was an act of yours! 730

It is by the fruit that one knows the tree, And thus are you recognized by your deeds.

Wickedly you arranged to give me apples and nuts, When your Pamphilus was already in front of the door.

At the right time, you were called by your neighbor, 735

And my virginity was thereby despoiled!

Oh, what noble reason caused your delay out-of-doors?

How well your treachery was hidden by craft!

But your mischief and tricks have completed the chase, And see, the fleeing hare has died in the trap! 740

Old Woman:

Far from me be such crime; I am chided unjustly! I can absolve myself well, by what means you will.


At my age the name of such an offense

Does not fit well, nor the study and art of this evil.

If, in some manner, your games turned to strife, 745

Is the fault mine, when it occurred in my absence?

Whatever it is, I am not part of your quarrel, Which was moved, not by me, but your foolhardy love!

Still, Pamphilus, since I don't know, tell all the facts in succession, That the source of this trouble be not hidden to me. 750


I am censured unjustly, if you knew the whole story, And her anger is harsher than I deserve.

But lovers ought ever to hide all their secrets; One is ashamed to have spoken, after the anguish is gone.


You should now calm such quarrelsome anger; 755

As for the rest, it concerns only us two.


Pamphilus, tell her what happened, since she acts the unknowing, And she will learn just how it all came about.

As if ignorant, she asks you what she herself counseled, That she might not seem guilty, in this matter, before me. 760


You've taxed me with countless and devious tricks, But now the evidence exposes your plot!

Thus is the curved hook felt by the fish, when already caught, And the bird sees the snare of the fowler too late.

What do I do now? Shall I, a captive, flee through the world? 765

My parents will, rightfully, shut me out.

Here and there, everywhere, I must search with anxious eyes, But no hope of joy will I find, wretch that I am!

Old Woman:

Excessive grief is not a sign of wisdom, For sorrow returns no profit whatever. 770


Therefore, bear calmly what effort cannot undo, And what immoderate love has so badly induced.

We should be prudent, as this case demands, And we must seek what counsel to follow.

Discord sorely vexes the hearts of all lovers,

And, in its blindness, wounds them in strife.

May you cherish each other, conclude a gentle peace Let him be your husband, may she be your wife!

By my wishes, this union between you be granted. Made happy through me, remember me well!

University of Michigan

pamphilus de amore

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