The Symposium, the Andron, the Mosaics

The first chapter reviews current understandings of the symposium, the andron, and pebble mosaics, including the possible origins and development of each, the iconographic themes introduced by the mosaics, and relevant previous scholarship. Emphasis is placed on the circulation of a single wine cup around the andron. Moreover, the chapter describes the symposium as a commensal gathering of equals that involved competition, conversation, entertainment, and drinking. It then situates this event in the andron, characterizing that setting, its development, and the archaeological evidence pointing to the specialized function of this room. The chapter also provides an overview of the literature on pebble mosaic floors.