The Associations of Tanagra: Epigraphic Practice and Regional Context

Abstract

In Boiotia only Tanagra has so far produced a series of epitaphs erected by associations for their deceased members. Thanks to a new autopsy of the stones an association without any parallel in the Greek world has come to light, an association of μάγειροι. The dossier of the enigmatic Aristiastai is also re-assessed and a new interpretation is offered: they could be a group of soldiers or former soldiers honouring Aristeia, the personification of an award of merit bestowed upon them. Finally, this series of epitaphs is placed in a regional context involving the island of Euboia. Indeed, the closest parallels for such epigraphic practice by associations in Central Greece originate from Chalcis and Eretria, illustrating once more the strong links between Tanagra and its Euboian neighbours, as well as the federative role played by the Euboian gulf.