Ancient Greek symposiums: More than feast, celebration of mind, spirit

In the heart of ancient Greece, the symposium was more than just a meal—it was a cultural event where intellect, art, and wine flowed in equal measure. At these lively gatherings, the kylix, a shallow drinking cup, became a symbol of both refined conversation and playful competition. 

The kylix, a shallow ceramic drinking cup with two handles, was a staple at every ancient Greek symposium, according to Greek media. 

These gatherings, typically for the upper class, were social events where men dined, drank, and engaged in deep discussions about philosophy, politics, and poetry, often while reciting or listening to music. The word "symposium," derived from the Greek symposion, meaning "to drink together," was rooted in the tradition of sharing wine with others.

During these gatherings, the kylix was often decorated with intricate painted scenes, frequently featuring depictions of symposiums or the god of wine, Dionysus. The artwork was more than just decoration; it became part of the social experience, as attendees would discuss the stories portrayed while sipping wine from their cups. The wide, shallow design of the kylix allowed for thin layers of wine, revealing painted stories at the bottom of the cup as it was consumed.

Another essential piece in the symposium was the krater, a large bowl used for mixing wine with water. This diluted wine was poured into the kylix for drinking. The krater, like the kylix, was decorated with scenes from symposium life.

While symposiums were often intellectual affairs, focusing on meaningful discussions, they were also occasions for games. One such game, kottavos, involved participants skillfully throwing wine from their kylix into a target, often a vessel. The game, which was common at both banquets and public spaces, offered prizes such as eggs or necklaces to the winners, based on their skill and elegance in handling the kylix.

Kottavos reflected the importance of both skill and social grace in ancient Greek culture, making it a key part of the festive and intellectual life of the symposium.

By Naila Huseynova