A segment of the ancient Greek Derveni Papyrus. Credit: Archaeological
Museum of Thessaloniki
The Derveni Papyrus, Europe’s oldest legible manuscript, dates back to the reign of Philip II of Macedon, around 340-320 B.C. This ancient Greek papyrus roll was discovered in 1962 near Thessaloniki, Greece, and is currently preserved in the Archaeological Museum there.
Discovery and Preservation
Unearthed among the remnants of a funeral pyre in a tomb, the Derveni Papyrus was found alongside rich artifacts, primarily metalware. The charred papyrus required meticulous work to unroll, separate its layers, and piece together numerous fragments. This painstaking process recovered twenty-six columns of text, albeit with their bottom parts missing due to fire damage.
A Philosophical Treatise
The Derveni Papyrus is a philosophical treatise and an allegorical commentary on an older Orphic poem about the birth of the gods. Orphism, associated with the mythical poet Orpheus, venerates gods like Persephone and Dionysus, who ventured to the Underworld and returned. Scholars debate the authorship of the text, suggesting figures such as Euthyphron of Prospalta, Diagoras of Melos, or Stesimbrotus of Thasos.
Linguistic Significance
The text features a mix of dialects, primarily Attic and Ionic Greek, with occasional Doric forms. Notably, the same word sometimes appears in different dialects, showcasing the linguistic diversity of the era.
UNESCO Recognition
In recognition of its historical significance, the Derveni Papyrus was the first Greek item included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World program. This program aims to protect the world’s documentary heritage from decay and oblivion by highlighting the value of historical works and facilitating access to them.
The Derveni papyrus – Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Cultural and Philosophical Impact
UNESCO highlights the Derveni Papyrus as a cornerstone for studying Greek religion and philosophy, the bedrock of Western philosophical thought. It serves as evidence for the early dating of Orphic poems and offers a distinctive perspective on pre-Socratic philosophy. Reflecting universal human values, the papyrus underscores humanity’s enduring quest to explain the universe, seek community belonging, and come to terms with death.
The Derveni Papyrus stands as a testament to the richness of ancient Greek thought and its lasting influence on global intellectual traditions.
SOURCE: Greek Reporter
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