Die Themistoklesbriefe zwischen Fälschung und Fiktion – Zur Relevanz griechischer Brieffiktionen für die neutestamentliche Pseudepigraphiefrage

Abstract Pseudepigraphy is a widespread and complex phenomenon in ancient Greek culture. Numerous letters are attributed to famous historical figures, especially in the first and second century. The letters of Themistocles offer a useful case study of pseudepigraphy of this kind. The purpose of the letters is still under discussion. Several interpretations are proposed by scholars (sometimes combined with one another), e. g. worthless forgery, epistolary novel, prosopopoiia, fictional self-biography. One of the most interesting questions is whether there is any evidence for a “fictional contract” between author and reader (“open” pseudepigraphy, epistolary fictions). In many respects, research on the letters of Themistocles and related literature may open up new perspectives for the study of New Testament pseudepigraphy.