Source edition
Aristides. Vol. 1. Dindorf, Wilhelm, editor. Leipzig: Reimer, 1829.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is an oration by the ancient Greek rhetorician Aelius Aristides, praising the beauty and charm of Smyrna (modern İzmir), a flourishing city in Asia Minor. The speech begins by recounting the history of Smyrna, which achieved ultimate beauty through three successive foundations like a phoenix, highlighting the harmony between its indigenous people and settlers along with historical anecdotes. The author then moves beyond myth, concretely depicting the city's unparalleled livability through visible features such as splendid public facilities, a pleasant climate, and its geographical advantages. Furthermore, he extols the famous Meles River, pays tribute to the poet Homer who was born of this river, and mentions the miracles of Poseidon. Finally, he describes the breathtaking views of the serene bay and the city's irresistible charm that captivates visitors like a magnet, concluding the oration with a humble admission that his words cannot fully capture such profound beauty.