Sexuality and the Symposion

In this lecture Dr Gillian Shepherd takes a closer look at the ancient Greek symposion – the ritualised, male and often elite drinking party which could also be the context for sexual encounters beyond the institution of marriage – such as with hetairai (courtesans) or pederasty, the socially condoned erotic relationship between a man and an adolescent boy. Archaeological evidence – especially in the form of recognisable dining facilities and symposion-related imagery on vases – combined with a range of ancient texts provides intriguing insight into this ancient cultural practice. Copyright 2013 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Contact for permissions.