Intelligence Squared Greece vs Rome, with Boris Johnson and Mary Beard
Mar 19, 2023
Boris Johnson, former Mayor of London and classicist, joins Mary Beard, a distinguished Lecturer in Classical Archaeology, for a lively debate on Greece and Rome. They discuss the profound influence of Greek democracy and literature, while contrasting it with Roman civic inclusivity and governance. Humorous insights, including a letter from a 3rd-century AD prostitute, add levity as they explore themes of love, philosophy, and identity. The discussion culminates in a surprising vote favoring Rome, showcasing enduring legacies that shape modern society.
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Meritocratic Indignation in the Iliad
- Boris Johnson highlighted Achilles' anger in the Iliad as an early example of meritocratic indignation in Greek literature.
- He emphasized the Greeks' rebellious spirit and intellectual honesty, citing examples like Archilochus' critique of generals and Heraclitus' dismissal of burial rituals.
Geography and Greek Exceptionalism
- Johnson argued that ancient Greece's geography, with its many small city-states, fostered competition and innovation.
- This environment, combined with Eastern influences, may have led to the flourishing of Greek culture and democracy.
Greek Humor and Satire
- Johnson mentioned the Greek joke collection "Philogelos" and Aristophanes' plays as examples of the Greek spirit of satire and willingness to mock authority figures.
- He contrasted this with the absence of similar satire in Roman culture, attributing it to the difference in political systems.