Contextualising Aristides’ Speech

Abstract This paper attempts to identify the as yet undetermined spatial context of the encomium ‘Panegyric in Cyzicus’ by Aelius Aristides (Or. 27), on the assumption that the text of the speech reflects the space in which it was delivered. First, it is shown that with respect to promoting mediation between factions, the Cyzicus oration is related to other speeches of Aristides, which were apparently delivered in council chambers. Furthermore, we would argue that the quotations from classical works in the oration, which compare the situation at Aristides’ time with past individuals and scenarios, also imply its spatial context. Consequently, it is considered likely that the Cyzicus oration was delivered in the city’s council chamber.