Oratory in the ancient Maghreb and its contribution to the formation of historical memory

Abstract

Rhetorical literature is among the most significant types of classical literary texts (Greek and Latin) that demands careful study and close examination. Therefore, this study aims to shed light on the historiographical function of such literature in documenting political and military events, as well as preserving religious and cultural aspects of ancient Maghreb.

The central question this paper revolves around is the relationship between oratory and history, their respective boundaries, and how Rhetorical literature can be utilized to reconstruct historical memory. To achieve this, the study employs a methodological framework combining a descriptive approach to map the characteristics of oratory and orators in the ancient Maghreb, a narrative approach to trace the historical evolution of this art form and its transformations, and an analytical approach to classify types of oratory, analyze their content, and extract their historical significance.

The study is structured around key themes addressing its primary research question. It first outlines the conceptual framework of oratory, drawing on the perspectives of prominent ancient theorists. Next, it touches on the historical roots and the gradual development of oratory in ancient Maghreb, followed by highlighting speech genres, an analysis of their content and underlying ideas. The paper then examines the methodological tools researchers should employ when engaging with such texts.

The study concludes that oratory and orators in ancient Maghreb remain understudied relative to their historical value, despite the region’s production of inspiring orators such as Apuleius and Saint Augustine, whose works became renowned throughout the ancient and early medieval world. Rhetorical literature possesses unique characteristics that distinguish it from other historical sources, offering researchers of these field opportunities to fill historical gaps, particularly due to its inclusion of rich political-military narratives and cultural and religious ideas. The study also clarifies how this art moved from oral practice in various spaces to documentation and recording processes of various types.

Keywords: Oratory; Orators; Ancient Maghreb; Historical Memory.