Katherine Clarke
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199291083
- eISBN:
- 9780191710582
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199291083.003.0005
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter focuses on a different form of evidence for the creation of the Athenian past, namely its public oratory. Through the public speeches of Demosthenes, Aeschines, and Isocrates, as well as ...
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This chapter focuses on a different form of evidence for the creation of the Athenian past, namely its public oratory. Through the public speeches of Demosthenes, Aeschines, and Isocrates, as well as of fragmentary texts, it examines the parameters of plausibility within which the orator was free to construct history, both buying into a commonly shared past and moulding that past for his audience. It considers whether orators favoured particular exemplary moments in history and, if so, whether these were the same as those which were dominant in local historiography. The orator, like the historian or the dramatist, played a vital role in helping the polis to formulate a past which was relevant to the present through its inclusion both of exemplary figures and events and of characteristics, which remained constant across time.Less
This chapter focuses on a different form of evidence for the creation of the Athenian past, namely its public oratory. Through the public speeches of Demosthenes, Aeschines, and Isocrates, as well as of fragmentary texts, it examines the parameters of plausibility within which the orator was free to construct history, both buying into a commonly shared past and moulding that past for his audience. It considers whether orators favoured particular exemplary moments in history and, if so, whether these were the same as those which were dominant in local historiography. The orator, like the historian or the dramatist, played a vital role in helping the polis to formulate a past which was relevant to the present through its inclusion both of exemplary figures and events and of characteristics, which remained constant across time.
Malcolm Heath
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199259205
- eISBN:
- 9780191717932
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199259205.003.0004
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This chapter assembles all the testimonia and fragments in which Menander is explicitly named; the Greek text is accompanied by an English translation and commentary. The collection is overwhelmingly ...
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This chapter assembles all the testimonia and fragments in which Menander is explicitly named; the Greek text is accompanied by an English translation and commentary. The collection is overwhelmingly dominated by the fragments of Menander’s commentary on Demosthenes. He may also have written commentaries on Aeschines and Aelius Aristides. Commentaries on works of rhetorical theory by Minucianus and Hermogenes are also attested. Two works on epideictic oratory have been transmitted under his name, and it is argued that only the second of the two was actually written by Menander.Less
This chapter assembles all the testimonia and fragments in which Menander is explicitly named; the Greek text is accompanied by an English translation and commentary. The collection is overwhelmingly dominated by the fragments of Menander’s commentary on Demosthenes. He may also have written commentaries on Aeschines and Aelius Aristides. Commentaries on works of rhetorical theory by Minucianus and Hermogenes are also attested. Two works on epideictic oratory have been transmitted under his name, and it is argued that only the second of the two was actually written by Menander.
Gunther Martin
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199560226
- eISBN:
- 9780191721427
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199560226.003.0003
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval
In the first trial between Demosthenes and Aeschines, the former depicts his rival as a traitor who by accepting Philip of Macedon's bribes and acting against the interest of the Aeschines has ...
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In the first trial between Demosthenes and Aeschines, the former depicts his rival as a traitor who by accepting Philip of Macedon's bribes and acting against the interest of the Aeschines has effectively left the community of Athenians. Demosthenes uses references to cults, festivals, or ceremonies to support this political point: Aeschines has poured libations and sung the paean with the enemy, and he has caused disruption to an Athenian festival through his detrimental policies. Hardly ever does Demosthenes accuse Aeschines directly of being flawed in a religious way. The clearest instances of argumentation based on religion are the admonitions to the judges to heed the heliastic oath and therefore not to acquit Aeschines.Less
In the first trial between Demosthenes and Aeschines, the former depicts his rival as a traitor who by accepting Philip of Macedon's bribes and acting against the interest of the Aeschines has effectively left the community of Athenians. Demosthenes uses references to cults, festivals, or ceremonies to support this political point: Aeschines has poured libations and sung the paean with the enemy, and he has caused disruption to an Athenian festival through his detrimental policies. Hardly ever does Demosthenes accuse Aeschines directly of being flawed in a religious way. The clearest instances of argumentation based on religion are the admonitions to the judges to heed the heliastic oath and therefore not to acquit Aeschines.
Gunther Martin
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199560226
- eISBN:
- 9780191721427
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199560226.003.0004
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval
A description of Demosthenes' position after Chaeroneia stands at the start of this chapter, showing that he defends himself not only against Aeschines, but also against the many accusations and the ...
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A description of Demosthenes' position after Chaeroneia stands at the start of this chapter, showing that he defends himself not only against Aeschines, but also against the many accusations and the allegations with a religious background which Aeschines only exploits. Demosthenes turns arguments about his ‘Fortune’, described as a goddess by Aeschines, into a discussion of personal fortune, thus deflecting the debate to one of social standing. In the discussion of Aeschines' participation in the obscure rite of Sabazius, he does not make a religious point but ridicules Aeschines for his ignoble upbringing. In this way he removes the religious element, alluding to this aspect of the accusation only occasionally and after long preparation.Less
A description of Demosthenes' position after Chaeroneia stands at the start of this chapter, showing that he defends himself not only against Aeschines, but also against the many accusations and the allegations with a religious background which Aeschines only exploits. Demosthenes turns arguments about his ‘Fortune’, described as a goddess by Aeschines, into a discussion of personal fortune, thus deflecting the debate to one of social standing. In the discussion of Aeschines' participation in the obscure rite of Sabazius, he does not make a religious point but ridicules Aeschines for his ignoble upbringing. In this way he removes the religious element, alluding to this aspect of the accusation only occasionally and after long preparation.
Gunther Martin
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199560226
- eISBN:
- 9780191721427
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199560226.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval
An analysis of the speeches of Aeschines and Lycurgus as well as Lysias' sixth speech shows all the features of religious argumentation, including those that cannot be read without acceptance of the ...
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An analysis of the speeches of Aeschines and Lycurgus as well as Lysias' sixth speech shows all the features of religious argumentation, including those that cannot be read without acceptance of the religious notions. Lysias' speech shows the widest range, featuring divine intervention in human affairs and the opponent's pollution, Lycurgus uses only the former type of argument, Aeschines only the latter. However, these two orators are consistent in the arguments they resort to throughout their careers; the choice of religious motifs is not made for one speech alone. An excursus considers the speech Against Aristogiton, which contains religious argumentation of a type Demosthenes does not employ in the undoubtedly genuine speeches; other motifs occur in higher density and intensity. There cannot be a definite conclusion about authenticity, though the interpretation as a genuine logographic speech seems most likely.Less
An analysis of the speeches of Aeschines and Lycurgus as well as Lysias' sixth speech shows all the features of religious argumentation, including those that cannot be read without acceptance of the religious notions. Lysias' speech shows the widest range, featuring divine intervention in human affairs and the opponent's pollution, Lycurgus uses only the former type of argument, Aeschines only the latter. However, these two orators are consistent in the arguments they resort to throughout their careers; the choice of religious motifs is not made for one speech alone. An excursus considers the speech Against Aristogiton, which contains religious argumentation of a type Demosthenes does not employ in the undoubtedly genuine speeches; other motifs occur in higher density and intensity. There cannot be a definite conclusion about authenticity, though the interpretation as a genuine logographic speech seems most likely.
Ian Worthington
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199931958
- eISBN:
- 9780199980628
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199931958.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Prose and Writers: Classical, Early, and Medieval
Demosthenes' resolute and courageous defiance of Philip II of Macedonia earned for him a reputation as one of history's outstanding patriots. He also enjoyed a brilliant and lucrative career as a ...
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Demosthenes' resolute and courageous defiance of Philip II of Macedonia earned for him a reputation as one of history's outstanding patriots. He also enjoyed a brilliant and lucrative career as a speechwriter, and is regarded as Greece's greatest orator, as proved by the rhetorical style of his surviving speeches. Yet he was a sickly child who suffered from several physical and speech impediments, had an interrupted education, and was swindled out of much of his family estate by unscrupulous guardians. His story is certainly one of triumph over adversity. Demosthenes has been lauded as Greece's greatest patriot and condemned as an opportunist who misjudged situations and contributed directly to the end of Greek freedom. This book aims to determine which of these two people he was: self-serving cynic or patriot—or both. The book discusses Demosthenes' troubled childhood and youth, the obstacles he faced in his public career, his successes and failures, and even his posthumous influence as a politician and orator. The book offers new insights into Demosthenes' motives and how he shaped his policy to achieve political power, set against the history of Greece and Macedonia. The book gives extensive quotations in translation from his speeches to sum up their main points and help to illustrate his rhetorical style, which the book also discusses.Less
Demosthenes' resolute and courageous defiance of Philip II of Macedonia earned for him a reputation as one of history's outstanding patriots. He also enjoyed a brilliant and lucrative career as a speechwriter, and is regarded as Greece's greatest orator, as proved by the rhetorical style of his surviving speeches. Yet he was a sickly child who suffered from several physical and speech impediments, had an interrupted education, and was swindled out of much of his family estate by unscrupulous guardians. His story is certainly one of triumph over adversity. Demosthenes has been lauded as Greece's greatest patriot and condemned as an opportunist who misjudged situations and contributed directly to the end of Greek freedom. This book aims to determine which of these two people he was: self-serving cynic or patriot—or both. The book discusses Demosthenes' troubled childhood and youth, the obstacles he faced in his public career, his successes and failures, and even his posthumous influence as a politician and orator. The book offers new insights into Demosthenes' motives and how he shaped his policy to achieve political power, set against the history of Greece and Macedonia. The book gives extensive quotations in translation from his speeches to sum up their main points and help to illustrate his rhetorical style, which the book also discusses.
Ian Worthington
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199931958
- eISBN:
- 9780199980628
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199931958.003.0013
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Prose and Writers: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This chapter is devoted to the crown trial of 330, when Aeschines indicted Ctesiphon for proposing a crown for Demosthenes in 336 for his services to the state, and Demosthenes ended up delivering ...
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This chapter is devoted to the crown trial of 330, when Aeschines indicted Ctesiphon for proposing a crown for Demosthenes in 336 for his services to the state, and Demosthenes ended up delivering the defense speech. It justified his politics and Ctesiphon was acquitted.Less
This chapter is devoted to the crown trial of 330, when Aeschines indicted Ctesiphon for proposing a crown for Demosthenes in 336 for his services to the state, and Demosthenes ended up delivering the defense speech. It justified his politics and Ctesiphon was acquitted.
Ian Worthington
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199931958
- eISBN:
- 9780199980628
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199931958.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Prose and Writers: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This chapter features more of Demosthenes' political speeches, his growing success in the Assembly, and Philip's invasion of the Chalcidice. It also deals with the clash between Demosthenes and ...
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This chapter features more of Demosthenes' political speeches, his growing success in the Assembly, and Philip's invasion of the Chalcidice. It also deals with the clash between Demosthenes and Meidias, the rise to political power of Aeschines, and the death throes of the Third Sacred War.Less
This chapter features more of Demosthenes' political speeches, his growing success in the Assembly, and Philip's invasion of the Chalcidice. It also deals with the clash between Demosthenes and Meidias, the rise to political power of Aeschines, and the death throes of the Third Sacred War.
Ian Worthington
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199931958
- eISBN:
- 9780199980628
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199931958.003.0007
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Prose and Writers: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This chapter discusses the events and negotiations between Philip and Athens that led to the Peace of Philocrates and the end of the war between the two, as well as the trial of Meidias and ...
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This chapter discusses the events and negotiations between Philip and Athens that led to the Peace of Philocrates and the end of the war between the two, as well as the trial of Meidias and Demosthenes' speech against him, the end of the Third Sacred War, and the punishment of Phocis.Less
This chapter discusses the events and negotiations between Philip and Athens that led to the Peace of Philocrates and the end of the war between the two, as well as the trial of Meidias and Demosthenes' speech against him, the end of the Third Sacred War, and the punishment of Phocis.
Ian Worthington
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199931958
- eISBN:
- 9780199980628
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199931958.003.0008
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Prose and Writers: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This chapter examines the uneasy aftermath of the Peace of Philocrates, Philip's plans to amend the peace, and Demosthenes' adverse reaction to them in his next political speeches as well as his ...
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This chapter examines the uneasy aftermath of the Peace of Philocrates, Philip's plans to amend the peace, and Demosthenes' adverse reaction to them in his next political speeches as well as his indictment in the so-called false embassy trial of Aeschines for corruption during the diplomatic negotiations with Philip in 346.Less
This chapter examines the uneasy aftermath of the Peace of Philocrates, Philip's plans to amend the peace, and Demosthenes' adverse reaction to them in his next political speeches as well as his indictment in the so-called false embassy trial of Aeschines for corruption during the diplomatic negotiations with Philip in 346.
Thomas Hubbard (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520223813
- eISBN:
- 9780520936508
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520223813.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Archaeology: Classical
The most important primary texts on homosexuality in ancient Greece and Rome have been translated into modern, explicit English and collected together in this sourcebook. Covering an extensive ...
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The most important primary texts on homosexuality in ancient Greece and Rome have been translated into modern, explicit English and collected together in this sourcebook. Covering an extensive period—from the earliest Greek texts in the late seventh century B.C.E. to Greco-Roman texts of the third and fourth centuries C.E.—the volume includes well-known writings by Plato, Sappho, Aeschines, Catullus, and Juvenal, as well as less well known but relevant and intriguing texts such as graffiti, comic fragments, magical papyri, medical treatises, and selected artistic evidence. These texts, together with introductions, clearly show that there was in fact no more consensus about homosexuality in ancient Greece and Rome than there is today. The material is organized by period and by genre, allowing readers to consider chronological developments in both Greece and Rome. Individual texts are presented with a short introduction contextualizing them by date and, where necessary, discussing their place within a larger work. Chapter introductions discuss questions of genre and the ideological significance of the texts, while the general introduction to the volume addresses issues such as sexual orientation in antiquity, moral judgments, class and ideology, and lesbianism.Less
The most important primary texts on homosexuality in ancient Greece and Rome have been translated into modern, explicit English and collected together in this sourcebook. Covering an extensive period—from the earliest Greek texts in the late seventh century B.C.E. to Greco-Roman texts of the third and fourth centuries C.E.—the volume includes well-known writings by Plato, Sappho, Aeschines, Catullus, and Juvenal, as well as less well known but relevant and intriguing texts such as graffiti, comic fragments, magical papyri, medical treatises, and selected artistic evidence. These texts, together with introductions, clearly show that there was in fact no more consensus about homosexuality in ancient Greece and Rome than there is today. The material is organized by period and by genre, allowing readers to consider chronological developments in both Greece and Rome. Individual texts are presented with a short introduction contextualizing them by date and, where necessary, discussing their place within a larger work. Chapter introductions discuss questions of genre and the ideological significance of the texts, while the general introduction to the volume addresses issues such as sexual orientation in antiquity, moral judgments, class and ideology, and lesbianism.
Esther Eidinow
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199562602
- eISBN:
- 9780191747304
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199562602.003.0017
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter returns to the trials of Theoris, Phryne, and Ninon. Drawing together the arguments of the book so far, it suggests that their trials were prompted by social dynamics, and highlights ...
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This chapter returns to the trials of Theoris, Phryne, and Ninon. Drawing together the arguments of the book so far, it suggests that their trials were prompted by social dynamics, and highlights phthonos and gossip. Aeschines’ comments about the trial of Socrates, in which he examines the informal reasons why Socrates was condemned to death, illustrate the important role played by specific social dynamics. The chapter ends by asking what is it that creates the right environment for gossip to become transformed into official legal action.Less
This chapter returns to the trials of Theoris, Phryne, and Ninon. Drawing together the arguments of the book so far, it suggests that their trials were prompted by social dynamics, and highlights phthonos and gossip. Aeschines’ comments about the trial of Socrates, in which he examines the informal reasons why Socrates was condemned to death, illustrate the important role played by specific social dynamics. The chapter ends by asking what is it that creates the right environment for gossip to become transformed into official legal action.
Joseph Roisman
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247871
- eISBN:
- 9780520932913
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247871.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Archaeology: Classical
This chapter focuses on the notions of conspiracy against legislative initiatives and decrees in ancient Athens. It suggests that litigants who depicted legislative proposals and decrees as ...
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This chapter focuses on the notions of conspiracy against legislative initiatives and decrees in ancient Athens. It suggests that litigants who depicted legislative proposals and decrees as scheme-shares with other practitioners and consumers of the rhetoric of conspiracy received a fundamental refusal to take manifest goals at face value unless they were selfish enough to put their trust in others. The chapter also describes, and provides commentaries on, the relevant works of Demosthenes and Aeschines.Less
This chapter focuses on the notions of conspiracy against legislative initiatives and decrees in ancient Athens. It suggests that litigants who depicted legislative proposals and decrees as scheme-shares with other practitioners and consumers of the rhetoric of conspiracy received a fundamental refusal to take manifest goals at face value unless they were selfish enough to put their trust in others. The chapter also describes, and provides commentaries on, the relevant works of Demosthenes and Aeschines.
Paola Ceccarelli
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199675593
- eISBN:
- 9780191757174
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199675593.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval
The sixth chapter pursues the analysis of the contrast between public speech and letter writing in political and forensic contexts through a discussion of the mention of letters in the speeches of ...
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The sixth chapter pursues the analysis of the contrast between public speech and letter writing in political and forensic contexts through a discussion of the mention of letters in the speeches of the Attic orators. Particular attention is given to the use made of letters in the political speeches of Demosthenes and Aeschines. Finally, after a survey of the letters and documents embedded in Isocrates’ speeches, the chapter discusses the ‘epistolary speeches’ of Isocrates, and more generally the first treatises in epistolary form, with an attempt at teasing out the reasons for the choice of this extraordinarily successful form, and its implications.Less
The sixth chapter pursues the analysis of the contrast between public speech and letter writing in political and forensic contexts through a discussion of the mention of letters in the speeches of the Attic orators. Particular attention is given to the use made of letters in the political speeches of Demosthenes and Aeschines. Finally, after a survey of the letters and documents embedded in Isocrates’ speeches, the chapter discusses the ‘epistolary speeches’ of Isocrates, and more generally the first treatises in epistolary form, with an attempt at teasing out the reasons for the choice of this extraordinarily successful form, and its implications.
Mirko Canevaro
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- September 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199668908
- eISBN:
- 9780191755491
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199668908.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval, Ancient Greek, Roman, and Early Christian Philosophy
This chapter provides a new analysis of the state documents (laws, decrees, registers) found in Demosthenes’ On the Crown. It discusses the relevant sources in detail, reconstructing the contents of ...
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This chapter provides a new analysis of the state documents (laws, decrees, registers) found in Demosthenes’ On the Crown. It discusses the relevant sources in detail, reconstructing the contents of the actual documents used by Demosthenes, and assessing the inserted documents in the light of this information, of comparable epigraphical material, and of the most recent advancements in the understanding of the institutional and legal workings of the Athenian democracy. As a result, this chapter confirms and strengthens previous judgements that these documents are not authentic, and in the process offers new insights on key moments of the history of the late fourth-century and of the struggle between Athens and Philip.Less
This chapter provides a new analysis of the state documents (laws, decrees, registers) found in Demosthenes’ On the Crown. It discusses the relevant sources in detail, reconstructing the contents of the actual documents used by Demosthenes, and assessing the inserted documents in the light of this information, of comparable epigraphical material, and of the most recent advancements in the understanding of the institutional and legal workings of the Athenian democracy. As a result, this chapter confirms and strengthens previous judgements that these documents are not authentic, and in the process offers new insights on key moments of the history of the late fourth-century and of the struggle between Athens and Philip.
Manuela Mari
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199665747
- eISBN:
- 9780191758201
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199665747.003.0005
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Archaeology: Non-Classical
Inscriptions were an essential part of the ancient landscape of Delphi, exerting a strong influence over the narratives devoted to the sanctuary by historians and other writers. Inscriptions offered ...
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Inscriptions were an essential part of the ancient landscape of Delphi, exerting a strong influence over the narratives devoted to the sanctuary by historians and other writers. Inscriptions offered a guide to the reconstruction of the past and an exciting way to narrate it. A great deal of information and many reflections on Delphic history and myths, on amphictionic institutions, and on the most remarkable monuments of the site were therefore suggested to the ancient authors by their own skill in reading and interpreting written documents available on the site itself, and by their confidence in the genuineness of such texts. On latter point, there is particular interest in both the polemic between Aeschines and Demosthenes on the possibility of knowing and ‘teaching’ the most ancient history of the sanctuary, and the research carried out by Aristotle and Callisthenes in Delphic archives. Delphi was therefore, in the classical period, simultaneously a place to visit and to go to on a pilgrimage, the focus of many historians' interest, and their ‘library’ and ‘epigraphic museum’. The chapters devoted to Delphi in the works by Herodotus, Strabo, or Plutarch (not to mention Pausanias) were directly inspired by the observation of monuments, buildings, and votive offerings and by the reading of written documents on permanent media. This chapter discusses some of the most interesting examples of this research work taking place in (and concerning) Delphi and demonstrates the extent of intellectual activity excited by the availability of one of the widest ‘epigraphic collections’ of the ancient world.Less
Inscriptions were an essential part of the ancient landscape of Delphi, exerting a strong influence over the narratives devoted to the sanctuary by historians and other writers. Inscriptions offered a guide to the reconstruction of the past and an exciting way to narrate it. A great deal of information and many reflections on Delphic history and myths, on amphictionic institutions, and on the most remarkable monuments of the site were therefore suggested to the ancient authors by their own skill in reading and interpreting written documents available on the site itself, and by their confidence in the genuineness of such texts. On latter point, there is particular interest in both the polemic between Aeschines and Demosthenes on the possibility of knowing and ‘teaching’ the most ancient history of the sanctuary, and the research carried out by Aristotle and Callisthenes in Delphic archives. Delphi was therefore, in the classical period, simultaneously a place to visit and to go to on a pilgrimage, the focus of many historians' interest, and their ‘library’ and ‘epigraphic museum’. The chapters devoted to Delphi in the works by Herodotus, Strabo, or Plutarch (not to mention Pausanias) were directly inspired by the observation of monuments, buildings, and votive offerings and by the reading of written documents on permanent media. This chapter discusses some of the most interesting examples of this research work taking place in (and concerning) Delphi and demonstrates the extent of intellectual activity excited by the availability of one of the widest ‘epigraphic collections’ of the ancient world.
Elizabeth Donnelly Carney
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- June 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780190280536
- eISBN:
- 9780190280550
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780190280536.003.0004
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
Our extant sources are full of contradictions and obscurities about Eurydice’s career. I will assess the available evidence relating to a series of questions about her public career and actions. Was ...
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Our extant sources are full of contradictions and obscurities about Eurydice’s career. I will assess the available evidence relating to a series of questions about her public career and actions. Was she an adulterer? Was she the murderer (or would be murderer) of her husband and any of her sons? Who was the man named Ptolemy who played such an important part in her life and that of her sons? Did she marry Ptolemy? If she married him, when did she do so, in relation to what events? The chapter will conclude with a discussion of the nature, likely origin, and credibility of our extant sources and with a reflection on the role of fourth-century propaganda in what our extant sources say about Eurydice and an examination of Eurydice’s role as a political actor and faction leader during the 360s.Less
Our extant sources are full of contradictions and obscurities about Eurydice’s career. I will assess the available evidence relating to a series of questions about her public career and actions. Was she an adulterer? Was she the murderer (or would be murderer) of her husband and any of her sons? Who was the man named Ptolemy who played such an important part in her life and that of her sons? Did she marry Ptolemy? If she married him, when did she do so, in relation to what events? The chapter will conclude with a discussion of the nature, likely origin, and credibility of our extant sources and with a reflection on the role of fourth-century propaganda in what our extant sources say about Eurydice and an examination of Eurydice’s role as a political actor and faction leader during the 360s.
Benjamin Gray
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- August 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780198729778
- eISBN:
- 9780191796470
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198729778.003.0005
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter argues that the ‘Nakonian’ and ‘Dikaiopolitan’ paradigms examined in previous chapters exerted a strong influence on dynamic political interaction in Greek poleis, especially ...
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This chapter argues that the ‘Nakonian’ and ‘Dikaiopolitan’ paradigms examined in previous chapters exerted a strong influence on dynamic political interaction in Greek poleis, especially constructive political deliberation and debate. It first argues for the influence of radical principles of solidarity, reciprocity, and freedom in social and economic life. It then argues that Athenian orators commonly combined, balanced, and adapted ‘Nakonian’ and ‘Dikaiopolitan’ ideals in flexible, often open-ended ways, in order to develop constructive, unifying arguments. Finally, it argues that the two paradigms were also very prominent in the rhetoric of those embroiled in disputes in which one or more party was facing possible exile.Less
This chapter argues that the ‘Nakonian’ and ‘Dikaiopolitan’ paradigms examined in previous chapters exerted a strong influence on dynamic political interaction in Greek poleis, especially constructive political deliberation and debate. It first argues for the influence of radical principles of solidarity, reciprocity, and freedom in social and economic life. It then argues that Athenian orators commonly combined, balanced, and adapted ‘Nakonian’ and ‘Dikaiopolitan’ ideals in flexible, often open-ended ways, in order to develop constructive, unifying arguments. Finally, it argues that the two paradigms were also very prominent in the rhetoric of those embroiled in disputes in which one or more party was facing possible exile.
Esther Eidinow
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199562602
- eISBN:
- 9780191747304
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199562602.003.0013
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter is the first of three case studies examining different genres of gossip, and the role and pathways of gossip in and through ancient Athenian society. This case study looks at ‘public’ ...
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This chapter is the first of three case studies examining different genres of gossip, and the role and pathways of gossip in and through ancient Athenian society. This case study looks at ‘public’ forms of gossip, that is, the allegations or accusations produced by one speaker against another in forensic rhetoric. Focusing particularly on the distinction between gossip and slander (or diabole), it examines the relationship between gossip and oratory, and the ways in which the two genres coincide and overlap within and beyond the Athenian law courts.Less
This chapter is the first of three case studies examining different genres of gossip, and the role and pathways of gossip in and through ancient Athenian society. This case study looks at ‘public’ forms of gossip, that is, the allegations or accusations produced by one speaker against another in forensic rhetoric. Focusing particularly on the distinction between gossip and slander (or diabole), it examines the relationship between gossip and oratory, and the ways in which the two genres coincide and overlap within and beyond the Athenian law courts.
Ed Sanders
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- April 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199897728
- eISBN:
- 9780199356973
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199897728.003.0005
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Literary Studies: Classical, Early, and Medieval, Ancient Greek, Roman, and Early Christian Philosophy
The chapter opens by examining, through an extrapolation of Aristotle’s comments in the Rhetoric, how an Aristotelian orator might use phthonos in argument in practice, and concludes that the only ...
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The chapter opens by examining, through an extrapolation of Aristotle’s comments in the Rhetoric, how an Aristotelian orator might use phthonos in argument in practice, and concludes that the only use consistent with Aristotle’s thought is demonstrating that it motivates an opponent’s actions. A survey of phthonos words in the Attic oratorical corpus shows that accusations against the opponent (or disclamations in response to, or anticipation of, an opponent’s argument) do indeed account for nearly all instances. The only explicit attempts to arouse an audience’s phthonos for the opponent are when the word means specifically moral censure, not envy. A detailed examination of two speeches (by Demosthenes) that make extensive use of phthonos arguments (and words) exemplifies this. However, it is possible to arouse envy against one’s opponent covertly—without using the word—and the chapter ends by considering a number of speeches where this happens, in response to avoidance of liturgies, embezzlement, or bribe-taking.Less
The chapter opens by examining, through an extrapolation of Aristotle’s comments in the Rhetoric, how an Aristotelian orator might use phthonos in argument in practice, and concludes that the only use consistent with Aristotle’s thought is demonstrating that it motivates an opponent’s actions. A survey of phthonos words in the Attic oratorical corpus shows that accusations against the opponent (or disclamations in response to, or anticipation of, an opponent’s argument) do indeed account for nearly all instances. The only explicit attempts to arouse an audience’s phthonos for the opponent are when the word means specifically moral censure, not envy. A detailed examination of two speeches (by Demosthenes) that make extensive use of phthonos arguments (and words) exemplifies this. However, it is possible to arouse envy against one’s opponent covertly—without using the word—and the chapter ends by considering a number of speeches where this happens, in response to avoidance of liturgies, embezzlement, or bribe-taking.
