eromenos

Eromenos was a social and cultural practice in ancient Greece, involving a close emotional and intellectual relationship between an adult male, known as an erastes, and a younger male, known as an eromenos. The eromenos was typically between the ages of 12 and 18, and was chosen for his beauty, charisma, and potential for intellectual and athletic development.

The relationship between the erastes and eromenos was seen as one of mentorship and guidance, with the older man playing a paternal role and the younger man learning from him. The erastes was expected to provide emotional support, intellectual stimulation, and physical training for the eromenos. In return, the eromenos was expected to show respect, admiration, and affection for the erastes.

In ancient Greece, the eromenos relationship was considered a normal and even desirable aspect of life. However, the power dynamic of the relationship was complex and was not always consensual. The eremenos relationship was widely known, with many Greek poets and writers, including Plato, writing about the practice in their work.

The relationship was not necessarily overtly sexual in nature, although it has been speculated that some relationships may have involved romantic or physical relationships. However, the main emphasis was on the intellectual and emotional bond between the two men. The eromenos relationship has been the subject of historical and cultural interpretation, with some viewing it as a precursor to modern-day pederasty and others seeing it as a positive and supportive mentorship model.