RHIANUS’ PHEME (FR. 56 POWELL): HELLENISTIC POLYEIDEIA AND THE AETOLIAN KLEOS IN PERFORMANCE AT DELPHI

Abstract

Svmmarivm – De Rhiani Cretensis Fama (fr. 56 Powell), ubi Callimachica πολυείδεια inlustrata,
agitur.

Abstract – This paper attempts a fresh reading of the single preserved verse from Rhianus’
poem Pheme. It co-examines the Hellenistic generic versatility (πολυείδεια), the terminology
used in Hellenistic literary critique, and the little evidence on the works and life of Rhianus
that suggest experimentation with a variety of genres and subjects, to discuss the structure,
genre, and context of Pheme. Internal and external evidence indicates that the now lost poem
was a hymnic part in a paean to the Aetolian κλέος that was performed during a festival at
Delphi. It further suggests that Rhianus was a wandering poet offering his service and expertise
across the Hellenistic world in performances at Pan-Hellenic festivals.