Carl,
I had always thought that Latin PERSONA (with a long O) came from
Etruscan PHERSU, "mask," rather than Latin PERSONARE (with a short
O). It is possible, however, that the Etruscan word was borrowed
from the Greek PROSWPON. About ten years ago, I was intensely
interested in the Etruscan language until I hit a brick wall: a
massive tome on the subject written in German. Maybe one of these
years I'll get to learn German and give old Pfiffig another try.
Stephen
-- Stephen C. Carlson : Poetry speaks of aspirations, scarlson@mindspring.com : and songs chant the words. http://www.mindspring.com/~scarlson/ : -- Shujing 2.35