Introduction

Translation and presentation of the The Oratory of Favorinus is an ongong process. Presently available is a short excerpt from the opening of the play.

The Oratory of Favorinus takes place on May 10, 128 — the evening before Hadrian is destined to be honoured with the title of Father of the Country. It is set in the house of Statianus.

Favorinus appears to have surprised the assembled guests with his topic — a detailed discussion of the origin and history of the pederastic tradition as it came down to the Romans from archaic Greece. He uses it — courageously! — to publicly embarrass Hadrian into recognizing the absurdity of keeping Antinous at a safe distance and not allowing him to be formally named the Favourite.

Antinous reacts to the events depicted here in Epistle 054 - In the Wake of a Paradox.