When Greek Was an African Language: The Role of Greek Culture in Ancient and Medieval Nubia

The Nubian encounter with Greek language began in the third century b.c.e. and lasted until the fi fteenth century c.e. During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, Nubian interest in Greek was pragmatic, since the Greek language was used primarily as a diplomatic tool for dealing with Greco-Roman Egypt. During the Middle Ages, however, Greek became integral to Nubian culture as the language of government and Nubian Christianity. This article traces the history of Greek language in Nubia and analyzes its changing function in ancient and medieval Nubian culture.