Pollux and Xenophon

Abstract

This paper explores the reception of Xenophon within the Onomasticon, aiming to analyse Pollux’s methods and his conception of language while defining his expanded Atticism and Xenophon’s role in it. While prior research has emphasised criticisms from strict Atticist lexicographers towards Xenophon, this paper investigates Pollux’s distinct approach, which includes an interest in rare terms, adaptation of language to linguistic registers, and willingness to incorporate dialectal expressions. Despite concerns about linguistic accuracy, Pollux maintains a moderate Atticist stance and relies on Xenophon as an undisputed authority, with hidden quotations emerging.

Keywords

• Atticism. Lexicography. Onomasticon. Pollux. Xenophon