Ioläus: An Anthology of Friendship

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Ioläus: An Anthology of Friendship

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Edward Carpenter's historical anthology explores the enduring institution of friendship through classical texts, poetry, philosophy, and cultural traditions spanning from ancient pagan tribes to modern times. Featuring excerpts from Greek philosophy, medieval legends, and Eastern poets, this collection traces the evolution of comrade-attachment, highlighting its role as a sacred bond that transcends time and culture.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'Ioläus: An Anthology of Friendship,' Edward Carpenter presents a sweeping historical survey arguing that friendship has always been a vital, dignified institution essential to a complete human life. Carpenter begins by examining primitive customs among African and Polynesian tribes, where comradeship was established through sacred duties such as blood-cementing ceremonies and name-exchange rituals. He illustrates how these early practices viewed friends as blood-relations bound to assist one another in every manner. The text then transitions to the Greek age, where friendship was elevated by philosophy and poetry, exemplified by the legendary bond of David and Jonathan. Carpenter continues through early Christian and medieval times, highlighting the transcendental nature of monastic brotherhood and the legendary devotion of Amis and Amile, whose friendship was so profound they were considered saints. The anthology further explores Eastern perspectives, drawing on Persian poets like Rumi and Saadi who equated mortal love with divine revelation, viewing the beloved as an image of God. Finally, the work examines the Renaissance and modern eras, noting how friendship was often socially suppressed before finding a resurgence in the democratic ideals of Walt Whitman. Through these diverse voices, Carpenter demonstrates that true friendship involves a profound union of souls, offering a necessary counterbalance to materialism and serving as a fundamental element of a complete human life. By arranging extracts in a chronological order, Carpenter reveals the continuity of these sentiments across races and times, showing that the dignity ascribed to friendship in early history is a sentiment that has evolved but never disappeared.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Sexuality
• Relationships