Time Manipulation in Leontius of Neapolis (7th c.)

Temporal dynamics is one of the most crucial aspects of narratology. It has been widely studied in Homer, where severe restrictions apply: in particular, in the Iliad and the Odyssey, a flashback to a moment later than the beginning of the main story is avoided. Temporal manipulation became much freer in historiography and drama, and it reached new levels of sensational effect in the Greek novel, especially in the work of Heliodorus (4th c.). The practice of hagiographers within this complex line of development in temporal dynamics, however, has to date received little attention. This contribution aims to show how Leontius of Neapolis employs narrative devices drawn from popular folktales to subvert audience expectations through effective disruptions of linear chronology and unexpected transitions between parallel storylines. It will also demonstrate how, by doing so, he achieves powerful effects of curiosity, suspense, and surprise.