Images and Ideologies: Self-definition in the Hellenistic World (Hellenistic Culture and Society)

This volume captures the individuality, the national and personal identity, the cultural exchange, and the self-consciousness that have long been sensed as peculiarly potent in the Hellenistic world. The fields of history, literature, art, philosophy, and religion are each presented using the format of two essays followed by a response. Conveying the direction and focus of Hellenistic learning, eighteen leading scholars discuss issues of liberty versus domination, appropriation versus accommodation, the increasing diversity of citizen roles and the dress and gesture appropriate to them, and the accompanying religious and philosophical ferment. The result is an arresting view of the incredible and unprecedented diversity of the Hellenistic world. The contributors to this volume attempt to convey the individuality, national identity and cultural exchange that existed with such vitality in Ancient Greece. They provide essays on Hellenistic history, literature, art, philosophy and religion. Anthony Bulloch Et Al. Papers Presented At A Conference Held Apr. 7-9, 1988, At The University Of California At Berkeley. Includes Bibliographical References And Index. Ptolemaic kingship has a Janus-like character, as can be seen in a pair of gold seals (see figs. 1a and b).