Author： Whittaker Helene
Publisher： Routledge Ltd
ISSN： 0039-7679
Source： Symbolae Osloenses, Vol.76, Iss.1, 2001-09, pp. : 150-168
Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.
Abstract
Porphyry's Letter to Marcella was ostensibly written by the Neoplatonic philosopher, while away on a mission on behalf of the Greeks, in order to encourage his wife, Marcella, to continue her study of philosophy during his absence. The precise date of the letter is uncertain. It is here argued that it was intended for public circulation and should be seen in association with Porphyry's anti-Christian polemic. It can be interpreted as a protreptic text intended to convert its readers to true philosophy, and it is suggested that it was directed to those women who might otherwise be attracted to Christianity. Marcella can be said to represent the intended readership of the letter.
Related content
The Dual Purpose of Animal Farm
Review of English Studies, Vol. 55, Iss. 222, 2004-11 ,pp. :
Access to resources
Recommend
The purpose and scope of the study
Language and Computers, Vol. 65, Iss. 1, 2008-03 ,pp. :
By Gray Ronald
Oxford German Studies, Vol. 5, Iss. 1, 1970-01 ,pp. :
By Dillard J.L.
Journal of Pidgin and Creole Languages, Vol. 10, Iss. 1, 1995-01 ,pp. :