The Physiological Significance of the Organic Metaphor in John of Salisbury's Policraticus*
Cary J. Nederman
Abstract
Political theory no less than other modes of expression and argumentation has thrived throughout its history on metaphor. 1 But particular styles of metaphorical discourse about politics have enjoyed popularity according to the demands of historical circumstance and intellectual tradition. The ancient Greek fondness for metaphors of technè has correctly been taken as a peculiar characteristic of its political culture. 2 Likewise, one of the most enduring metaphors in the political thought of the Latin Middle Ages was the likening of politics or society to a living (generally human) body. Following the lead of Calcidius’ commentary on Plato’s Timaeus, early medieval authors commonly compared the operation of the city to bodily parts and functions. 3 As political institutions and patterns of life became richer over the course of the Middle Ages, so did the organic analogy evolve in its intricacy and breadth of application. 4 At the close of the medieval period, the metaphor of the body was still widely employed to describe all manner of human institutions and forms of government. 5 Indeed, only a few scripturally derived metaphors (such as Peter and the keys) seem to have rivalled the body in appeal to political authors.