Source edition
Ovid. P. Ovidius Naso, Volume 1: Amores, Epistulae, Medicamina faciei femineae, Ars amatoria, Remedia amoris. Ehwald, Rudolf; Merkel, Rudolph; editors. Leipzig: B. G. Teubner, 1907.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This didactic poem offers practical "cures" to rescue those suffering from the destructive passion of love and to heal their emotional wounds. The poet acts as a physician of love, obtaining the consent of Amor and the patronage of Apollo to deliver various precepts to young men and women. In the first half, he emphasizes the importance of addressing the sickness of love early, advising readers to avoid idleness by immersing themselves in activities like agriculture, military service, or travel. As the work progresses, he suggests more specific physical and psychological tactics, such as consciously focusing on the lover's flaws, loving multiple partners, or feigning indifference. In the latter part, the poet counsels readers to avoid loneliness by spending time with friends and to distance themselves from triggers like keepsakes and romantic poetry. Ultimately, through multifaceted advice that extends to overcoming jealousy and controlling diet, the work guides readers to cool their passions gently and regain peace of mind.