Gestos, palabras y actitudes en el De facie in orbe Lunae de Plutarco

Abstract

In this article, we offer an analysis of some compositional features in the first part of Plutarch’s dialog De facie in or be Lunae. Firstly, we propose a stylistic use of the verbal forms ehrov, ehre / €φη(ν) to distinguish the principal and the secondary characters, so as to point out the nuances of their interventions; secondly, we essay to elucidate the addressees of Lucius’ and Lamprias’ principal expositions; and, thirdly, we underline the importance of some dramatic elements in the structure of the diatribe. We can imagine the discussion in this dialogue as a lively debate, where not only the words, but also the speakers’ attitudes and gestures play an important role. Through them, Plutarch lets us know -sometimes ironically- his philosophical sympathies and antipathies, giving us enough proofs of his ability to make a precise characterization of his literary personages.