Simonides, Part 1

Abstract

This chapter is the first of a four-part reading of the Simonides poem (and how it is treated in surrounding dialogue) that treats its structure, implicit and explicit premises, and possible outcomes separately. Simonides, Part 1, introduces the poem in translation, concentrating on philological quirks foregrounding themes of poetry, sophistry, and how charismatically delivered argumentation can affect the argument and its participants.