ABSTRACT
The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the functioning and dynamics of the local elite in the poleis of the Greek East at the time of the Roman Empire. To do so, we will perform a lexical analysis of the term prαόthV in both literary and epigraphical sources.1 Some preliminary observations must be made prior to taking a closer look at how an analysis of this term can offer some important information regarding relations between the local elite and the central power.
