Visual Algorithms of Corinth: Analyzing Ritual and Monumental Arrangements in Pausanias’ Periegesis Book II

Abstract

This paper examines Pausanias’ Periegesis Book II as a structured account of Corinthian sanctuaries and monuments that functions as a “visual algorithm.” Rather than a random catalogue, his narrative organizes mythic episodes, ritual spaces, sculptures, and paintings into a coherent sequence shaped by rules of order and association. The study classifies the text into categories of location, monument type, deity, material, ritual function, and motif, and visualizes these data as a network graph. This approach highlights spatial pathways and thematic clusters, such as the recurrence of marine imagery at sanctuaries of Poseidon, the prominence of Aphrodite on the Acrocorinth, and the integration of fountains, tombs, and theaters into ritual itineraries. Findings show that Corinth is presented as a landscape of thresholds where myth, ritual, and memory intersect. Pausanias’ account emerges as a curated itinerary, algorithmically arranging sacred images and spaces to structure collective experience.

Presenters

Hyejin Kim
Professor, Greek Studies and Bulgarian Studies, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Gyeonggido [Kyonggi-do], South Korea

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Arts Histories and Theories

KEYWORDS

Pausanias; Corinth; Visual Algorithm; Ritual Landscape; Monumental Arrangement; Sacred Space