The agones for Ortheia

Join Professor Massimo Nafissi (Università Degli Studi di Perugia) for a discussion about The agones for Ortheia

Join leading academics for this week's lecture followed by a general discussion.

The whipping contest, the so-called diamastigosis, and the lesser agones known through the stelae with sickles dedicated by the victors are among the most significant and famous cultural events in Sparta. Yet the one and the other remain enigmatic in many ways. The talk examines the evolution and significance of the whipping contest and the relationship between the lesser agones for Ortheia and Spartan education. It will thus attempt to answer several questions about diamastigosis. In what context and for what reasons did the Spartans move from the cheese-stealing contest briefly described by Xenophon to all-out flogging? Is it correct to emphasize the religious character of the diamastigosis? How was it perceived by the public? As for the lesser agones, we will pause mainly on the prize of the sickle, and its relation to Spartan education.

All are very welcome. Free to attend.

Discussants:

Professor Massimo Nafissi (Università Degli Studi di Perugia)

Dr Alberto Esu (University of Nottingham)

Dr Philip Davies (University of Nottingham)

Dr Petros Doukas (Mayor of Sparti)

Dr Chrysanthi Gallou (University of Nottingham)

The event will be hosted on Microsoft Teams. Register for this event on Microsoft Teams now to receive an email link for this event.