Cyprianus, bonus odor… cypri, e il quadratus Quadratus. Giochi di parole agostiniani su nomi di martiri

In his sermons, Augustine often makes an ‘improper use’ of the proper names of saints and martyrs: he re-etymologizes them, taking advantage of a grammatical device that requires solely the epilinguistic skills of the listeners (regardless of their literacy) to be properly understood. A deep understanding of proper names, which are believed to embody the essence of the person, enables listeners to comprehend and imitate the Christian personality of the saints and martyrs. Etymological wordplays on the names of Petrus and Paulus, and especially Cyprianus (312, 313C), Quadratus (306B, C, D, E), and the Massa candida are discussed. Using Cyprianus and Quadratus as his starting point, Augustine delves into the meanings of both names, elaborates on them and also develops a related imagery based on both technical lore and Scripture.