摘要
In this case study we explore Cicero’s processes of framing and image-building regarding the concept of an anti-mother/-woman.For this we examine Cicero’s portrayal of Sassia,a woman who features as one of the main antagonists of his speech Pro Cluentio.We analyse Cicero’s depiction of Sassia’s evilness towards her son,Cluentius,through the lens of frame and framing theories.By doing so,this case study aims to present a deeper understanding of Cicero’s stratagems(e.g.,priming,calling for action;nudging,pushing someone towards action;and affordance,offering a frame to act outside of or within)which were employed in order to devise a negative characterisation of Sassia.The application of this methodological approach to Cicero’s framing of Sassia provides a new scope for analysing not only the classical text itself but also for the analysis of ancient human society to which it belonged.
