Oratorical Prose in Byzantium and China in the 4th – 13th Centuries

This article focuses on the oratorical prose in Byzantium and China during the period between 4th and 13th centuries, taking an overlook not only on the development of this genre in both distinct cultures but also its significance for the social and political life. The Byzantine oratorical prose, associated with sermons and speeches, was used to build up the authority and moral values in their society. In China, however, oratorical prose had a significant role in state administration, education, and political strategies. This analysis takes a closer look at how these two types of oratorical traditions exist and thrive through permeating their cultural and historical peculiarities, highlighting the function of oratory for political persuasion and social stability.