Final answer:
Vergil and Ovid are essential figures in the study of classical myth, providing significant contributions through the Aeneid and Metamorphoses, shaping Roman culture, and serving as expressions of moral and social values.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vergil, often spelled Virgil, and Ovid are two of the most influential writers from ancient Rome, whose works are pivotal for those studying classical myth. Vergil is best known for his epic, the Aeneid, which follows the hero Aeneas and is considered the culmination of Roman epic poetry. He represents the Augustan age and provides a Roman perspective on mythological themes derived from the earlier Greek epics of Homer. Ovid, on the other hand, wrote during the same period and is famous for his work Metamorphoses, a collection of mythological tales that spans from the creation of the world to the deification of Julius Caesar. Both authors' works were used as part of the educational system, seen as moral exemplars for Romans to follow, and provided instructions on aspects of daily life.
Their importance lies not only in the literary value but also in the way they shaped Roman culture and provided insights into ancient Roman beliefs, values, and practices. Studying their works gives us a better understanding of how mythology was woven into the fabric of ancient societies, influencing art, literature, and even the conduct of war. As such, Vergil and Ovid's works are essential for anyone looking to understand the broader implications of classical myths beyond just their entertainment value.