Rhetoric of Free Speech in Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages

Explore the intricate dynamics of free speech in the pivotal period of Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages with Rhetoric of Free Speech in Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages by Irene van Renswoude. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2021, this compelling 289-page paperback delves into the rhetoric utilized by dissidents, outsiders, and truth-tellers. Van Renswoude's accessible analysis challenges conventional views on political criticism, illustrating that there was indeed a space for dissent during this era. However, she emphasizes that critics needed to navigate their expressions carefully, using the appropriate rhetoric and adhering to established roles. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in classical philology, political discourse, and the evolution of free speech. Discover how historical contexts shaped the voices of dissent and the art of persuasion in a transformative time.