Xenophon of Ephesus

Xenophon of Ephesus was the author of one of the few novels of the ancient world.

Work

Xenophon of Ephesus wrote his Ephesiaca (Greek Ἐφεσιακά, " Ephesian stories " ) in Roman times, probably in the 2nd century, in Greek.

The plot revolves around the young couple Anthia and Habrokomes, the diverse fates suffered on a journey as they are typical of the ancient Roman ( shipwreck, separation, alleged breach of trust, ...). Anthia is kidnapped on their honeymoon by pirates. As a beautiful young woman she is the object of some desire. But she manages to keep the marital fidelity - as well as her husband, she is looking all over the Mediterranean. Finally, the two come together again and return to their home Ephesus. The plant is sometimes also interpreted religiously, as eulogy to the goddess Isis. About Xenophon himself is not known, possibly the name of Xenophon is an elected on the basis of Xenophon of Athens pseudonym.