Pausanias (geographer)

Pausanias lived from the mid-second century until his death around 180 AD. He was likely born into a Greek family in Lydia, a region within Asia Minor. Nothing else is known about his life except what historians can piece together from his own writing. From an unknown start date until 180, he traveled extensively throughout mainland Greece. His journey covered various monuments, sacred spaces, and significant geographical sites along the way. Pausanias sought to create a lasting written account of all things Greek during this period.

Roman Era Greek Identity

Living under Roman imperial rule shaped how Pausanias viewed his heritage. He grew up in Asia Minor but maintained a strong connection to his Greek identity. The country was beholden to Rome as a dominating imperial force during his lifetime. Yet he valued his history and culture deeply enough to document their glories. His pilgrimage through the land of his ancestors served as an attempt to establish a place for new Roman Greece. This effort connected myths and stories of ancient culture to those of his own time.

Writing Style And Methodology

Pausanias used a straightforward and simple writing style throughout Description of Greece. He wrote his stories and descriptions unelaborately compared to other authors of his era. Some translators have noted that his use of various prepositions and tenses may be confusing. For example, he might use a past tense verb rather than the present tense in some instances. Their interpretation is that he did this to make it seem as if he were in the same temporal setting as his audience. Unlike modern travel guides, he tended to elaborate with discussion of an ancient ritual or impart a myth related to the site he visited.

When did Pausanias the geographer die?

Pausanias died around 180 AD. He lived from the mid-second century until that time.

Where was Pausanias born and what region did he live in?

Pausanias was likely born into a Greek family in Lydia, which is a region within Asia Minor. He traveled extensively throughout mainland Greece during his lifetime.

What writing style did Pausanias use for Description of Greece?

Pausanias used a straightforward and simple writing style throughout Description of Greece. He wrote his stories and descriptions unelaborately compared to other authors of his era.

Did Pausanias actually visit the places he described in his work?

Modern archaeological research has revealed the accuracy of information imparted by Pausanias. Even its potential as a guide for further investigations was uncovered through study.

How did Roman imperial rule influence Pausanias view of his heritage?

Living under Roman imperial rule shaped how Pausanias viewed his heritage while he maintained a strong connection to his Greek identity. The country was beholden to Rome as a dominating imperial force during his lifetime.

Pausanias (geographer)

Roman Era Greek Identity

Writing Style And Methodology

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