Aristophanes and the Carnival of Genres

Key Themes and Concepts

Carnival and Genre Collision: Platter argues that Aristophanes' works exemplify a mixture of high and low genres, reflecting Bakhtin's idea of carnival, where societal norms are subverted. This blending of genres not only creates humor but also serves as a medium for political commentary, allowing for a democratization of voices within the text.

Political Satire: The book posits that although Aristophanes' comedies are often viewed through a political lens, they also embody an ambivalence that complicates straightforward interpretations of his stance on contemporary issues. Platter seeks to navigate this complexity, suggesting that Aristophanes employs irony and intertextuality to engage with political themes without necessarily taking a definitive position.

Bakhtinian Influence: Platter provides an extensive introduction to Bakhtin's theories, particularly focusing on dialogism and the role of laughter in creating a space for alternative political readings. He aims to harness Bakhtin's insights to offer a fresh perspective on Aristophanes, challenging traditional scholarly views that have predominantly framed him as a political satirist.