Greek Literature and the Roman Empire uses up-to-date literary and cultural theory to make a major and original contribution to the appreciation of Greek literature written under the Roman Empire during the second century CE (the so-called 'Second Sophistic'). This literature should not be dismissed as unoriginal and mediocre. Rather, its central preoccupations, especially mimesis and paideia, provide significant insights into the definition of Greek identity during the period. Focusing upon a series of key texts by important authors (including Dio Chrysostom, Plutarch, Philostratus, Lucian, Favorinus, and the novelists), Whitmarsh argues that narratives telling of educated Greeks' philosophical advice to empowered Romans (including emperors) offer a crucial point of entry into the complex and often ambivalent relationships between Roman conquerors and Greek subjects. Their authors' rich and complex engagement with the literary past articulates an ingenious and sophisticated response to their present socio-political circumstances.

"Tim Whitmarsh is possibly the most interesting and sophisticated critic writing on Greek Imperial literature these days, and this important, groundbreaking new book should solidify this reputation. The breadth, subtlety, and richness of writing on display are remarkable; if you want to understand why the Second Sophistic is undergoing such a resurgence in Classics, to grasp what is at stake in the literature and why it is so exciting, and can only read one book on the topic, this should be it."

"An important contribution to the study of the so-called 'Second Sophistic' period.... Whitmarsh offers illuminating and provocative readings of texts both familiar and less known."

"This book is extremely stimulating.... Whitmarsh's work manifests an enviable familiarity with the most recent bibliography and an extremely acute critical eye, and it will serve as a valuable guide to the slipperiness of texts written in an age of extraordinary literary self-consciousness."

"Review from previous edition [an] important, groundbreaking new book ... The breadth, subtlety, and richness of writing on display is remarkable."

"essential reading for anyone attempting to grapple with the issues involved in reading or interpreting Greek imperial literature."

Tim Whitmarsh is Leverhulme Lecturer in Hellenistic Literature, University of Exeter.