Associations in Ptolemaic Egypt: A Sociopolitical Typology

This paper seeks to create a typology of associations in Ptolemaic Egypt by characterising their similarities and differences. This systematic approach will cover occupational and ethnic associations, including synagogues, formal and informal clubs, politeumata, and gymnasia, illuminate the origin of these organisations, and—building on the work of San Nicolo, Clarysse, and Thompson—take a first step towards revaluating this important aspect of Hellenistic social and legal history. In this context we need to know what associations already existed in Egypt before the Ptolemies, and which organisations emerged in Ptolemaic times. Is it appropriate, furthermore, to apply terms such as “public,” “private,” “official” or “unofficial” to define different kinds of association?