Barbari e cultori delle Muse: i “Precadmei”

The work investigates the problem of Boeotian/Theban identity considering the otherness represented by the pre-Cadmean populations, Aones, Hyantes and Temmikes, probably very archaic ethnonyms, viewed as populations to defeat and expel at the time of Epaminondas, then, over the course time, becoming ancient realities into which to assimilate. The two different “images” reflect different periods: the end of the V century when the anti-Theban cities take their distance from Thebes and recover their “Barbarian” past, placing themselves closer to the ancient inhabitants of Boeotia; and the start of Boeotian military decline. Musical virtues remain and they shall continue to appear in celebrations and games, singing the praises of Beotia, the land of Aonian Muses and Hyantid nymphs.