| Oppian describes the Molossian - "impetuous and of steadfast valour, who attack even bearded bulls and rush upon monstrous boars and destroy them....They are not swift, but they have abundant spirit and genuine strength, unspeakable and dauntless courage." Used by the shepherds of Epirus in the mountains of northwestern Greece, the Molossian was a heavy mastiff. "If you are not bent on looks and deceptive graces," writes the poet Grattius, a contemporary of Ovid, and "when serious work has come, when bravery must be shown, and the impetuous War-god calls in the utmost hazard, then you could not but admire the renowned Molossians so much." They are used to protect the flock and guard the house. |
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