Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Ancient prose is intriguingly diverse. The aim of this volume is to explore the dynamics of ancient prose by focusing on three literary forms that all have suffered from neglect and yet appear vital today. By doing so, this volume shifts focus from the three conventional prose genres of antiquity - philosophy, historiography and oratory - to three less canonical prose forms - biography, novel and apologetics. Focusing on the sophistication in thought and artistic scope within these literary forms, the volume investigates the relationship between fiction and non-fiction in these narratives: while the novel is fictitious beyond discussion, the art of biography purports to capture the lives of real, historical persons, and the same is often the case of apologetic prose. Yet all prose forms share essential features. The juxtaposition of three genres whose distinction today is perceived as clear-cut, but which appear interrelated in a problematic way in ancient prose serves as a reminder of the slippery slope between facts and fiction also beyond antiquity. The book is intended for students and scholars of Greek, Latin, ancient civilization and theology, as well as of the classical tradition and its receptions in later times.
Synopsis
Ancient prose is intriguingly diverse. This volume explores the dynamics of the Latin and Greek prose of the Roman empire in the forms of biography, novel and apologetics which have historically lacked recognition as uncanonical genres, and yet appear vital today. Focusing on the sophistication in thought and artistic texture to be found within these literary kinds, this volume offers a collection of stimulating essays for students and scholars of literature and culture in antiquity - and beyond.