Sophrosune in the Greek Novel

What is it about?

Rachel Bird provides the first comprehensive analysis of the concept of sophrosune in the ancient Greek novels. This concept encapsulates the ethical dispositions of self-mastery, moderation, decency and chastity in ancient Greek thought. In the novels it is primarily represented as the virtue which restrains sexual desire and motivates chastity and fidelity. Bird’s approach throws light on how this concept is intrinsic to the novels, allowing for the central romantic relationships to flourish despite the trials and tribulations which the fictional lovers endure. The role of characterization is crucial, with each character’s possession of sophrosune carrying differing nuances and implications. Bird also explores the ways in which gender influences characters’ approach to the virtue, and she demonstrates that male and female sophrosune may have similar results, but they can stem from different motivations. In looking at characterization, Bird uses methodologies such as narratology and intertextuality to elucidate the implications of characterized sophrosune. Aside from looking at how the concept is represented within these texts, Bird also considers how the role of sophrosune in readerly response is a crucial concern for the authors of the novels. The reader’s sophrosune acts to temper both the erotic drive of the narratives and the issue of readerly voyeurism, ensuring that a balanced and intellectually rewarding reading experience is encouraged. Bird shows how this virtue is central to the self-definition of characters and readers. It is intrinsic to the cohesion of the novels and its centrality in these texts indicates its importance beyond them

Featured Image

Photo by Casey Lovegrove on Unsplash

Photo by Casey Lovegrove on Unsplash

Why is it important?

There is no other book-length exploration of ethics in the ancient Greek novels, and Bird's book highlights the centrality of sophrosune and related terms and concepts relating to sexual ethics in these texts.