The Naval Aristocracy of Hellenistic Rhodes

by Gabrielsen, Vincent

• ISBN13: 9788772884301
• ISBN10: 8772884304
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1997-12-01
• Publisher: Aarhus Universitetsforlag

Summary

This study posits that the distinction of Hellenistic Rhodes, exemplified by economic prosperity, internal stability, military might and high political esteem among foreign powers, can be directly linked to the naval aristocracy. The book contends that a constantly publicised pride in naval experience was paramount to the self-perception of the upper class. It was the basis of their role in the military, political and commercial infrastructure. By analysing the role of the wealthy, who personally owned the ships used both for warfare and commerce, their financial responsibility for personnel, and the ramifications of this power, Gabrielson explains the organisation of the society as a whole. By providing economic security, the aristocracy promoted domestic peace that, in turn, allowed for expansion overseas, thereby re-securing their own power and labour forces. The navy safeguarded mercantile routes.

Table of Contents

Illustrations	p. 9
Abbreviations	p. 10
The Secrets of Rhodian Success	p. 15
The Naval Aristocracy	p. 15
The Image-Makers	p. 18
Democratic Institutions	p. 24
Economic Inequality	p. 31
The Naval and Commercial Infrastructure	p. 37
Land-based Facilities	p. 37
Naval Objectives	p. 42
The Political Infrastructure	p. 44
Suppliers and the Extension of Power	p. 46
Trade and Prosperity	p. 64
Amphora Handles and Trade	p. 64
The Rhodian Entrepot and its Commercial Partners	p. 71
Economic Strategies	p. 74
Credit-Supplying Institutions	p. 80
The Rhodian Navy	p. 85
Types of Ships	p. 85
The Triemiolia	p. 86
The Rhodian Crews	p. 94
Organization and Function	p. 97
Warships and Maritime Trade	p. 100
The 'First Fruits' of the Sea	p. 108
The Local Power Structure	p. 112
Adoption	p. 112
Adoption and the Demes	p. 116
Cornerstones of Power I: Public Bodies	p. 120
Cornerstones of Power II: Associations	p. 123
Priesthoods, Exclusivity, and Land-hunger	p. 130
Adopted Priests of Athana Lindia: Basis of Election	p. 137
Adoptees with Two Demotics	p. 138
The Patrai, Diagoniai, and Ktoinai	p. 141
Notes	p. 155
Bibliography	p. 217
Index of Subjects	p. 227
Index Locorum	p. 236
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