Public Competitions of Sophists and Rhetorical Presentations (epideixis akroasis) in Early Byzantium

Abstract

The paper considers such a type of social activity in Late Antique (Early Byzantine) cities as sophist competitions and rhetorical contests (performances) of the 4th-6th centuries. Representatives of the «Third» (the 2nd half of the 4th century) and «Fourth» sophistry (the end of the 5th – 6th centuries) were characterized by such competitions and performances, associated primarily with the educational process in higher rhetorical schools and city holidays, as well as with the «tours» of the sophists and private occasions of citizens. As a rule, such a competition was accompanied by advertising or invitations if it was a «private screening». The topics of competitive performances were of a «school» nature (plots from mythology and ancient history), personal dedication to the ruler, commander, eminent citizen, about a wedding or acts of charity (philanthropy). There were carefully developed rhetorical techniques for voice, facial expressions, gestures, etc. The behavior of the audience was distinguished by stable options – shouting, applause, chants, and even acrobatic actions such as cheerleading. Relations between sophists (rhetoricians) at competitions evolved from noble and respectful in the 2th – 3th centuries («Second» sophistry) to petty-zealous with manifestations of envy and arranging dirty tricks for a competitor. The most informative material about sophist competitions and speeches by rhetors is contained in the writings of Libanius and Choricius, the leading representatives, respectively, of the «Third» and «Fourth» sophistry.