When erotic servitude prevails over social servitude: the case of Callirhoe by Chariton of Aphrodisias

Abstract

Chariton's novel, titled Callirhoe, probably the oldest of the ancient Greek novels (dating to around the middle of the first post-Christian century), redefines the content of servitude, in the sense that members of the elite, in both West and East, are depicted as slaves to the beauty of Callirhoe and their love for her. This type of servitude is hierarchically, thematically, and even linguistically prioritized over social servitude, which is placed in its service. Furthermore, erotic servitude and religious worship merge, as evidenced, for example, by the "adoration" of Callirhoe's person. Callirhoe is the mistress of all, men and women, the embodiment of the goddess Aphrodite. This power is unrelated to her high social status or the illustrious political fame of her father but stems from a natural attribute, namely her unparalleled beauty.