Approaching Hellenistic aesthetics*

'Hellenistic aesthetics' remains a disparate and contested field, which is approached with different assumptions and levels of approbation in various branches of classical studies. This introduction seeks to initiate a dialogue between these different disciplinary strands, drawing together the study of literary aesthetics ('poetics'), philosophy, and art history. Building on recent developments in Hellenistic studies, the authors outline key issues and concerns, including the variety, materiality, and social embeddedness of Hellenistic aesthetics. After a case study on precious stones, the introduction concludes by mapping out the contents of the volume and flagging further avenues for future research.