Progress Review: ‘Problems in the Sources pertaining to Pyrrhus of Epirus, particularly in the Pyrrhic War 280-275 BC’

The ruler of Epirus, Pyrrhus, a ‘descendant’ of Achilles, kinsmen of Alexander the Great and an exceptionally talented commander is one of the most captivating figures of the Hellenistic Period. Pyrrhus is best known for his campaigns against the Romans. These campaigns are important because it was the first time a Hellenistic king fought the Romans. This was not lost on authors of his period, many of whom wrote about Pyrrhus’ war with Rome. However, most of these works did not survive transmission, thus historians are reliant on works composed centuries after Pyrrhus lived. This is problematic for numerous reasons. This seminar mainly focuses on the issues concerning the literary record of the conflict between Pyrrhus and Rome, specifically related to the portrayal of Roman conduct in the Pyrrhic War.  There seems to be an inconsistency which is most notable in Dionysius’ and Plutarch’s narratives. On the one hand, the Romans are portrayed as totally incorruptible, not impressed by the kingly splendour of Pyrrhus and absolutely resolute in the face of defeat. Yet, on the other hand, the Romans formed an alliance with Carthage, suffered defections of allies and almost came to terms with Pyrrhus. This seminar will make the case that these inconsistencies obscure the history of the Pyrrhic War, but they can be explained and mitigated by an analysis and comparison of all the authors. This will allow for a better understanding of the Pyrrhic War.