Final Answer:
The second person Aeneas speaks to in the underworld is Dido, the former queen of Carthage.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Book 6 of Virgil’s “Aeneid,” Aeneas encounters Dido in the underworld. Dido was the queen of Carthage and had a tragic love affair with Aeneas in life. When Aeneas meets her shade in the underworld, she initially avoids speaking to him due to the pain he caused her by leaving Carthage. However, she eventually engages in conversation with him, expressing her sorrow and resentment. This encounter serves as a poignant moment in the epic, highlighting the themes of love, loss, and the consequences of Aeneas’ actions on those he encountered during his journey.
Dido’s presence in the underworld symbolizes the unresolved emotions and unfinished business between her and Aeneas. Their interaction underscores the impact of their past relationship on both characters, adding depth to their respective arcs. This encounter also serves as a reminder of the human emotions and relationships that transcend even into the afterlife, emphasizing the enduring power of love and regret.
Virgil’s portrayal of Aeneas’ conversation with Dido in the underworld is a pivotal moment in the narrative, shedding light on the complexities of human emotions and relationships. It adds emotional depth to both characters and contributes to the overarching themes of love, duty, and fate that permeate the “Aeneid.”