Negotiation and Reconciliation. A new interpretation of the Athenian introduction of the Asklepios cult
2016; De Gruyter; Volume: 98; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1515/klio-2016-0003
ISSN2192-7669
Autores Tópico(s)Ancient Near East History
ResumoSummary This article discusses the Athenian introduction of the Epidaurian Asklepios in 420 / 19 B. C., from the perspective of the international relations in the Classical Period. Contacts between Athens and Epidauros had existed since the early Archaic Period and continued during the Peloponnesian War, which enabled both poleis to cooperate on this particular instance. The delicate equilibrium between the Spartan and Athenian alliance that the Peace of Nikias encompassed was the outcome of changes in the political atmosphere in both camps, as politicians striving towards rapprochement and consolidation accumulated sufficient influence. Instead of regarding the cultic foundation as the result of Athenian imperialist design, the Athenian introduction of Asklepios must be regarded as a symbol of reconciliation between Athens and Epidauros that demonstrates the utilisation of sanctuaries to obtain political goals besides imperial aims.
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