Human Intelligence Collectors: Pamphila
Jan 20, 2025
In this discussion, Edith Hall, a Professor of Classics at Durham University, brings to light the remarkable Pamphila of Epidaurus, an ancient female historian who defied gender norms. They explore her innovative storytelling style, blending humor and history like an 'embroidery.' Edith highlights Pamphila's focus on personalities and lively anecdotes, contrasting her approach with traditional historians. They also delve into the survival of Pamphila's work through fragments, emphasizing her influence as a forerunner for modern female scholars.
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Originator Of Cultural History
- Pamphila invented cultural history by focusing on how people live rather than only names, dates and battles.
- Naomi Alderman argues this human-centred approach changed what history could record and preserve.
Alcibiades And The Broken Double-Pipes
- Pamphila recounts Alcibiades breaking his double-pipes because he disliked the shape they made of his face.
- The story says Athenians stopped playing the instrument, showing how his vanity influenced cultural taste.
Dappled, Accessible Writing Style
- Photius describes Pamphila's writing as mixed, diverse and 'dappled', indicating a deliberately varied, accessible style.
- Edith Hall suggests this 'simple Greek' was an artful choice aimed at a broad or younger readership.
