Latin and Later Greek Literature: Reflections on Different Approaches

Abstract

The question of whether and how Greeks dealt with Latin literature during the imperial period and whether and how this might be reflected in Greek texts of this period has often been ‘solved’ or ‘answered.’ The present contribution reflects on methodological approaches without prejudice or the desire to promote a particular approach, and rather discusses (1) the advantages, problems, and limitations of each approach. To begin with (2), we briefly discuss the external criteria, i.e., the facts that can be used to draw conclusions about the general knowledge of Latin literature in the Greek-speaking world during the imperial period. The main part (3) concentrates on the internal criteria (text, sources, subtexts); we discuss the various approaches and methodology, such as Quellenforschung, intertextuality, reader-response theory or ‘non-engagement.’ A summary (4) attempts with caution to take stock of the issue.