Dialogs

Dialogs are named, structured modes of exchange in the mathic world (scholarly monastic tradition). The labels help participants set expectations about purpose, roles, and tone, and the same term also refers to written records of such exchanges that are studied, re-enacted, and memorized by fids (students).

Context and attestations

Reference works about Orithena describe the ancient geometer Metekoranes as “usually silent in Dialogs,” indicating recognized occasions of formal discourse in that tradition.

Definition and scope

A Dialog is a formal discourse between theors (scholarly practitioners of theorics). To be “in Dialog” means to participate extemporaneously in such an exchange. The term also applies to preserved texts of historical exchanges, which are a cornerstone of mathic literature and pedagogy.

Formats

• Classic format: two principal speakers, with onlookers who may contribute intermittently.
• Triangular: features three roles—one savant, one ordinary knowledge-seeker, and one imbecile—used to draw out ideas from multiple stances.

Description and types

Several named modes are attested: - Suvinian Dialog: a teaching exchange in which a mentor instructs a fid (student). - Peregrin dialog: a cooperative exchange between equals, often invoked alongside Peregrin (sanctioned travel outside) in usage; see Peregrin. - Periklynian dialog: an adversarial, combative style of argument.

These labels function as a conversational taxonomy used by avout (monastic scholars) to characterize how an exchange is meant to proceed—didactic, collaborative, or competitive.

Usage and notes

• “To be in Dialog” is used for live, unscripted exchanges; the same conversations may later be transcribed as literary Dialogs.
• Onlookers, though not principals, may pose questions or challenges.
• Terminology and emphasis can vary by math (scholastic house), and speakers may apply more than one label to a single conversation as its tone shifts.
• Being described as “silent in Dialogs” suggests reticence during such formal exchanges rather than lack of ability.