Source edition
Lucian, Vol. 6. Kilburn, Kenneth, editor. London: William Heinemann, Ltd.; Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1959 (unrenewed copyright).
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a witty self-defense in which the author addresses a minor slip of the tongue he committed during a morning greeting. To excuse his mistake of mixing up the standard salutations 'Rejoice' (Chaire) and 'Be in good health' (Hygiaenein), the author explores the historical origins of these greetings and discusses the views of philosophers like Plato, Pythagoras, and Epicurus. He adduces various anecdotes of historical figures such as Alexander the Great to demonstrate how highly the greeting of 'health' has been valued and prioritized over all other goods. Ultimately, the author reinterprets his blunder in a positive light, arguing that although it arose from involuntary agitation, uttering a wish for health is actually an auspicious omen. Through this playful defense, the text transforms a trivial social faux pas into a learned discourse filled with humor and erudition.