Remember though, the Romans aren't doing the modern day attributions for us, and it is clear that their use of the term "cornucopia" may be remarkably different than a modern definition which encompasses a broader spectrum
My point exactly. The botanical name of the Poaceae grass
is (
part of) the broader and modern spectrum. As
Peter points out, there is no ancient connection to the grass.
There is considerable evidence for a connection for the "horn of
plenty" if the etymology does suffice. Pliny, in the natural
history, preface 24. writes "ĪŗĪĻĪ±Ļ ĪĪ¼Ī¬Ī»ĪøĪµĪ¹Ī±Ļ, quod copiae
cornu (volebant intellegi)", indicating clearly the relationship between the "horn of Amaltheia" and the term "
Cornu Copiae"(although in the rather interesting context of a book with that title, but failing to deliver on the promise and being actually 'empty' of worthwhile content); Plautus in Pseudolus 671 writes "
cornu copiaest ubi inest quidquid volo" ("it's a
cornucopia, in which resides everything I desire"). You'll find lots of illustrations not only on coins, but also on larger imagery like frescoes showing the
cornucopia, clearly as a horn filled and often overflowing with fruit or plants, in the
hands of a number of deities connected, directly or indirectly, with
plenty.
So, the definition of the "horn of the
goat Amaltheia which provides for people's needs" is not only appropriate to
Annona, it is also quite narrow as a spectrum.
In either case, it does not have anything to do with the original discussion of this
thread...