In this paper, I will focus on two things that appear in the parable of the Great Banquet (Luke14: 16-24, p80 Ehrman), which is symposia and social marginal. To provide a thorough explanation of these two subjects, I will use examples from three different readings: The Symposium or The Lapiths by Lucian of Samosata, The Dream, or The Rooster by Lucian of Samosata and Sailing to the Underworld, or the Tyrant. From these passages, we can see clearly what is the definition of a symposium and what happen during this occasion. We can also learn about social marginal and their advantage over the rich people despite their insufficiency in life. Here, we see that being rich and wealthy, which is what the poor people have been trying to achieve, is not as pleasurable as it seems to be.
A symposium is described as a private drinking party, usually is the consumption of wine. Besides the Theatre, it is the most important social event on the polis, and it is central to the aristocrats. Symposia are usually held in the Andron or the men’s room, which is the largest, best-decorated room in the aristocratic house. Symposia are held for specific occasions or festivals, and it is a way that an aristocrat shows off his wealth. The invited people and the space being provided in the symposia are very limited, therefore, these symposia gathering represents their social status. Foods and wine are served and entertainment is provided. On the other hand, a social marginal is anybody who does not belong to the aristocratic household. Examples of social marginal’s are, peasants (knemon), Micyllus, Brigands, beggars, the insane, cynic philosophers, hetairai.
“The Symposium of the Lapiths” is a story of Philo and Lycinus, two men who talk about a recent symposium, held by Aristaenetus. Aristaenetus in this story has a role of kyrios, he wants to marry his daughter, Cleanthis, to Chaereas,