Aristaenetus, Chariton, Longus, Ancient Novel, Gregory of Nazianzus, Intertextuality, Late Ancient Reception
Abstract
Full of allusions, quotations and rhetorical flourish, the epistolary collection by Aristaenetus clearly shows a good knowledge of classical writers and especially of the learned Second Sophistic authors, such as the Greek novelists (in particular, Achilles Tatius and Xenophon of Ephesus). This paper specifically deals with two Aristaenetus’ letters (I, 3 and I, 12): analysis of indirect quotations and allusions demonstrates that the epistolographer is well acquainted with Chariton’s novel, and perhaps Longus’ Daphnis and Chloe too. This evidence shows a continued readership of the ancient novel between the fifth and sixth centuries.
Author Biography
Nunzio Bianchi, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro
