Emotions in Josephus’ Writings

Abstract This chapter explores Josephus’ understanding of emotion (πάθος). After an overview of his concept of πάθος, it examines the way Josephus frames emotions in relation to reason—a relationship he renders not as an opposition but rather as a gradient. It then turns to his ideal of emotional control, which, overall, appears as rather soft, as it allows for occasional outbursts. The chapter also analyzes some frequent metaphors in Josephus’ works, especially how he compares emotions to fire, raw and bitter food, and wild animals—all potentially hazardous but also associated with human survival and dominance. Finally, the chapter addresses how the interplay between emotion and gender in Josephus’ writings suggests a view of reason, masculinity, and power as unsteady ideals, with femininity and emotion in need of constant management.