In the epic Latin poem “The Aeneid,” written between 29 and 19 BC, the Roman poet Virgil coined the phrase “Timeo Danaos et dona ferentes ” which translated into English means “Be wary of Greeks bearing gifts.”

The adage is commonly used to warn of a supposed gift or act of virtue that is a hidden threat.  This timeless warning has even more import today in Italy as we face one of our greatest historical challenge due to the coronavirus public health crisis.