| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of Ancient History |
| Editors | Roger S Bagnall, Kai Brodersen, Craige B Champion, Andrew Erskine, Sabine R Huebner |
| Publisher | Wiley-Blackwell |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 978-1444338386 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-1405179355 |
| State | Published - 2012 |
Abstract
Aisymneteai were obscure, mainly Archaic officials or rulers seemingly associated with the demos and mediation; the etymology is unknown. Among Homer's Phaeacians nine aisymnetai, demioi (“from the people”), “managed [presseskon] everything well in contests/ gatherings” (Od. 8.258–60). Homer's imperfect verb indicates that they were not ad hoc; despite scholastic suggestions, nowhere do they arbitrate contests (contrast brabeus; Achilles in Il. 23.270–897).