In discussing the optimal structure of a plot in works of fiction, Aristotle (330 BC/2011, VIII) argues that the different parts of a fictional plot, or any other system/structure, should be joined in such a way that if any one of them is removed or moved the whole thing would be ruined. Hence, anything which... Continue Reading →

Sappho was ranked on par with (if not above) her ancient male counterparts, by everyone from ancient to modern literary critics; despite feminist claims that, in patriarchal cultures, the work of outstanding female writers has been systematically suppressed or denigrated. For example, Alcaeus of Mytilene was a contemporary and an alleged lover of Sappho who was... Continue Reading →

Despite claims of feminist literary critics that in patriarchal cultures women are seen as incapable of producing quality works of literature; Eustathius of Thessalonica (1115 – 1195/6 AD), a Byzantine Greek scholar and an Archbishop of Thessalonica, recounted an ancient fiction which describes both Homeric epics being composed by an Egyptian priestess, named Phantasia. Along... Continue Reading →