Greek Literature and the Roman Empire

The Politics of Imitation

By: Tim Whitmarsh

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Hardcover | 1 January 2001

At a Glance

Hardcover
392 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
14.9 x 22.4 x 3.6

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Greek Literature and the Roman Empire uses up-to-date literary and cultural theory to make a major and original contribution to the appreciation of Greek literature written under the Roman Empire during the second century CE (the so-called 'Second Sophistic'). This literature should not be dismissed as unoriginal and mediocre. Rather, its central preoccupations, especially mimesis and paideia, provide significant insights into the definition of Greek identity during the period. Focusing upon a series of key texts by important authors (including Dio Chrysostom, Plutarch, Philostratus, Lucian, Favorinus, and the novelists), Whitmarsh argues that narratives telling of educated Greeks' philosophical advice to empowered Romans (including emperors) offer a crucial point of entry into the complex and often ambivalent relationships between Roman conquerors and Greek subjects. Their authors' rich and complex engagement with the literary past articulates an ingenious and sophisticated response to their present socio-political circumstances.

Industry Reviews

This book is extremely stimulating but to be used with caution. Whitmarsh's work manifests an enviable familiarity with the most recent bibliography and an extremely acute critical eye, and it will serve as a valuable guide to the slipperiness of texts written in an age of extraordinary literary self-consciousness. Journal of Hellenic Studies This book will be read both for its penetrating treatment of individual passages and more general discussions. Journal of Hellenic Studies Whitmarsh fully makes his case that a lively and engaged inventiveness, not a disempowered inferiority, is the mark of his authors. JACT Review Whitmarsh is an expert and witty reader, and the book would work well as an anthology of critical readings for those unfamiliar with the texts. JACT Review With a sophistication fully equal to that of his subjects, Whitmarsh deploys the full fire-power of literary and cultural theory, but in an accessible and jargon-free way. JACT Review Tim Whitmarsh is possibly the most interesting and sophisticated critic writing on Greek Imperial literature these days, and this important, groundbreaking new book should solidify this reputation. The breadth, subtlety, and richness of writing on display is remarkable ... for once, the expansive title of a book actually matches the scope of its contents ... essential reading for anyone attempting to grapple with the issues involved in reading or interpreting Greek Imperial literature. Bryn Mawr Classical Review

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