In the 2nd century AD, a revival of interest in Greek culture emerged within the Roman elite society, particularly focusing on the Roman emperors. This phenomenon is referred to as the ‘Second Sophistic’ movement, characterized by a resurgence of ...
In the 2nd century AD, a revival of interest in Greek culture emerged within the Roman elite society, particularly focusing on the Roman emperors. This phenomenon is referred to as the ‘Second Sophistic’ movement, characterized by a resurgence of classical Attic dialects and grammar, with an emphasis on rhetoric and eloquence in elite education. Major cities in the eastern part of the empire became hubs for this cultural revival, notably Athens, which underwent reconstruction sponsored by Emperor Hadrian.
This paper explores the demand for culture and education created by the widespread resurgence of classical Greek culture in the 2nd century AD, particularly examining the cultural phenomenon of Greek intellectuals traveling to the Greek mainland. Figures like Pausanias, not originally from the Greek mainland, represent this cultural trend. This study aims to confirm that Pausanias Periegesis is a significant document in the context of the Roman elites growing interest in Greek art, through its record of the collection, exhibition, and aesthetic evaluation of Greek artworks.
This study delves into Pausanias Periegesis in the context of the 2nd-century revival of Greek culture in the Roman Empire. Focusing on his first book ‘Attica,’ this paper scrutinizes Pausanias journey and analyzes the objects he designates as ‘worth seeing.’ Furthermore, the paper explores the valuable information provided by Pausanias regarding ancient Greek artworks, including iconographic details, anecdotes about artists, dates, materials used, size, and artistic qualities. Particularly noteworthy is the attempt to systematically appreciate artworks at a time when a structured foundation for such endeavors was lacking. The book can be viewed as a unique introductory guide for elite Roman travelers visiting the museum ‘Attica,’ aiding them in understanding the art of ancient Athens. Consequently, Pausanias, through his travels, emerges as a figure who, by offering new perspectives in the realms of art history and education in Hellenism, made valuable contributions to his contemporaries and later generations.