Rhétorique et philosophie dans l’Apologie d’Apulée: fonction et valeur de la première partie du discours (§ 4-25), et du développement sur le dentifrice (§ 6-8)

Abstract

The present paper deals with the rhetorical nature of the first part of Apuleius’ speech Pro se de magia (§§ 4-25), the importance of which is commonly minimized. This part is better accounted for as a ‘probatio uitae’, through which the orator intends to prove his innocence by exposing the excellence of his past life and character. The process matches Apuleius’ intention to identify his case with that of philosophy itself confronted to the hatred of uneducated and malevolent accusers. The passage on toothpaste (§§ 6-8) in particular lays the foundations for the rhetorical strategy of the entire speech. The defendant fashions himself as the herald/hero of philosophy and culture, whereas the accusers are depicted as barbarous, ignorant and evil creatures. The final snippet featuring the crocodile and his fellow-bird identifies the adverse party with animals (as opposed to the defendant’s humanity) in a disparaging manner not devoid of threatening undertones.