(A.S.) Chankowski L'éphébie hellénistique. Étude d'une institution civique dans les cités grecques des îles de la Mer Égée et de l'Asie Mineure (Culture et cité, 4). Paris: de Boccard, 2010. Pp. 621, illus. €85. 9782701803050.

Abstract

K. Buraselis, the only contributor to deal with the Aegean islands, analyses three regions and their federal sanctuaries: the Cyclades with their league of islands (Nesiotai), Lesbos and Crete (which actually never had a federal sanctuary). The author argues that federalism could not advance very much on its own during Hellenistic times due to the geographical features of the Aegean region, which was simultaneously divided and united by the sea. The author rightly concludes that federal developments around central sanctuaries assumed mixed forms, marked by the independent initiatives of members, and remained dependent on the actions, major political goals and support of hegemonic powers (for example both kings and large cities). Finally, T.H. Nielsen argues that even if the sanctuaries of Triphylia and Arkadia could be identified, it would be difficult to determine if they ever functioned as federal sanctuaries as the federation existed for a very short time. The volume does not include an index, which would greatly facilitate its consultation. Nonetheless it deserves considerable praise, not only for examining the various multifaceted ways in which the federal sanctuary functioned and evolved, but also for challenging many traditional concepts hitherto used to comprehend this phenomenon. It will thus appeal to anyone with an interest in ancient religion and politics. ERICA ANGLIKER University of Zurich and Birkbeck, University of London erica.morais.angliker@access.uzh.ch