[323-381] The marriage-song of Peleus and Thetis, arranged in twelve strophes, but without precise correspondence in the number of verses in each (cf. on this point c. 62). In theme and general treatment, and in certain details (eg. the address in vv. 372ff., with which cf. Catul. 61.211ff.), the song is a true epithalamium, such as might be sung outside the closed door of the marriage-chamber, and the conclusion of the description of the wedding with the song reinforces this impression of it. But it is represented as sung by the Fates while the other guests were feasting, and vv. 328ff. suggest that the bride is yet to arrive. Evidently the poet is not attempting to reproduce the exact features of a marriage ceremonial, and precise interpretation from an archaeological standpoint is impossible.
Catullus. Catullus. E. T. Merrill. Cambridge. Harvard University Press. 1893.
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