The forensic time machine. Play on times in Apollodoros’ Against Timotheos
Résumé
Timotheos is believed to have faced an eisangelia in November 373: sent to rescue the Corcyreans, he sailed towards the Cyclades to gather money and men. This eisangelia is mentioned in Apollodoros’ speech Against Timotheos, probably delivered in 362. Apollodoros explains to the jurors that they remember the opinion that everyone had of Timotheos at that time. But the construction of his narrative tries to play with time in order to cover up the good reputation of his opponent. Through a style deemed poor, he manages to manipulate reality, which is now unknowable. By calling for judges’ testimony, Apollodoros also alleges a common knowledge that appears to be a rhetorical loophole to gain the trust of his hearers.