ταυτ' εγω μαρτυρομαι:
Bystanders as Witnesses in Aristophanes

Author: Spatharas, Dimos¹

Source: Mnemosyne, Volume 61, Number 2, 2008 , pp. 177-191(15)

Publisher: BRILL

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Abstract:

The aim of this paper is to examine the function of bystanders as witnesses in Aristophanes. It includes an examination of the relevant passages and a presentation of the legal aspects that they exhibit. I argue that, while forensic speeches depict different types of assistance offered by the bystanders to victims of criminal action, the 'victims' on Aristophanes' comic stage, usually annoying intruders, fail to secure the assistance of those within earshot.

Keywords: ARISTOPHANES; BYSTANDERS; WITNESSES

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1163/156852507X195754

Affiliations: 1: Odisseos 6, 146 71 N. Erithraia, Greece;, Email: dspatharas@yahoo.gr