Ann Wroe On The Real Story Of Pontius Pilate, And His Connection To Stoicism
Aug 2, 2023
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In this engaging conversation, Ann Wroe, a seasoned author and the obituaries editor of The Economist, dives deep into her biography of Pontius Pilate. She discusses the power and morality dilemmas Pilate faced, and how they resonate with today’s leadership challenges. Wroe explores the art of writing obituaries, emphasizing life narratives over death. The dialogue also weaves in themes of Stoicism, revealing how ancient philosophies can guide contemporary understanding of authority and ethics.
Pilate and Jesus exist in separate realities and struggle to comprehend each other's worldview.
The Romans found beauty in unexpected places and appreciated intricate details.
The clash between cultures can lead to a breakdown in understanding, even when speaking the same language.
Deep dives
Pilate's Complex Role and Perspectives
Pilate, the Roman governor, is depicted as a soldier tasked with a difficult job and trying not to mess it up. He grapples with the challenges of governing Judea, lacking diplomatic skills and struggling to understand the local customs and beliefs. His perspective is juxtaposed with that of Jesus, who represents an entirely different worldview. Despite their confrontation, they are fundamentally unable to comprehend each other's reality.
The Beauty in Small Details
The Romans had a unique outlook on the world, perceiving beauty in unexpected places. This is evidenced in their art, as seen in the paintings of Pompeii and their appreciation for intricate details. Marcus Aurelius, in his Meditations, marvels at the beauty of small phenomena, such as the cracks in bread or the ripening figs. This ability to find beauty in the ordinary is a recurring theme in Roman culture and philosophy.
The Collapse of Understanding
The clash between different cultures and perspectives can lead to a complete collapse of understanding. The meeting between Pilate and Jesus is a prime example of this. Despite the attempt at dialogue, the two exist in completely separate realities and cannot bridge the gap. Pilate, the Roman soldier, is anchored in his military and political role, while Jesus represents a different way of thinking and seeing the world.
Ancient Mythologies and Belief Systems
The Romans had a diverse and open attitude towards religion, accepting various mythologies without necessarily believing in them. They recognized the value of other belief systems and philosophies, including those of the Egyptians and the Greeks. Their own pantheon of gods and emperors as gods shows their willingness to embrace different religious traditions.
The Limitations of Language and Communication
The limitations of language become apparent when different cultures and belief systems clash. Even when people speak in the same language, they may fundamentally misunderstand each other. The confrontation between Pilate and Jesus highlights the difficulty of communication when two individuals have such vastly different worldviews.
Ryan speaks with Ann Wroe about her book Pontius Pilate: The Biography of an Invented Man, what she has learned over her long career of writing obituaries, why death is the great equalizer, the intrigue and misunderstanding of Pontius Pilate and his life, and more.
Ann Wroe is an author and columnist who has been the obituaries editor of The Economist since 2003. She has published several non-fiction books including biographies of Percy Shelley and Perkin Warbeck, and a book on the subject of the mythological figure of Orpheus, which won the London Hellenic Prize. Her biography of Pilate was shortlisted for the 1999 Samuel Johnson Prize. Ann became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2007, and she is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.