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(The ancient tradition concerning Pythagoras of Samos’ role as the founder of physiognomy): This paper collects and analyzes ancient sources that refer to Pythagoras of Samos as the founder of physiognomy. Interest in physiognomy, which deals with the relationship between the body and the spirit, has become more popular over the last few years; however, many aspects of research into the topic are still obscure and worthy of further study. Physiognomy was assumed by ancient authors to be the method by which candidates were selected to enter the Pythagorean community, used by the Greek philosopher and his followers. Information about Pythagoras, who – by simply looking at somebody – could recognize their character appears, in the works of Aulus Gellius, Hippolytus, Porphyry, Iamblichos, Proclos and Olympiodorus. Apart from discussing testimonia about Pythagoras and his physiognomic examinations, the text explores the role of physiognomy during the selection process for the Pythagorean community in order to provide a better understanding of elite traditions within society. The paper also supplies further insight with regards to the methodology behind physiognomical surveys, which were popular during antiquity.

(Tiberius’ Actions in Selected Regions as Instruments of Diplomatic Policy from 20 BCE to 37 CE): This article is devoted to the diplomatic activities of Tiberius which can be divided into two main phases. The first period concerns the time before Tiberius became emperor (20 BCE–14 CE), whilst the second relates to his time as ruler of the Empire (14–37). The composition of the work is geographical, because in some regions Tiberius acted as a diplomatic envoy of Augustus and later as the emperor. The paper discusses his role and how effective his actions were with regards to the following regions: (I) Armenia and Parthia; (II) Pannonia; (III) Germania; (IV) Thrace; (V) Cappadocia, Commagene, Amanus and Pontus; (VI) Greek cities; (VII) Palestine and Syria.