This book investigates the decline and near disappearance of the dialogue as a literary and philosophical form in late antiquity. Simon Goldhill, a distinguished scholar of classical literature and culture, examines why this genre, invented in democratic Athens and popularized by Plato, ceased to be a favored mode of expression under the Christian empire. The study analyzes the intricate relationship between literary form, cultural authority, and the shifting social, religious, and political landscapes of the era, exploring the reasons behind the genre's waning appeal.

The book is recognized for its systematic and comprehensive study of the dialogue genre in antiquity, a topic previously lacking such detailed analysis. It is noted for its innovative approach to understanding the relationship between literary form and cultural authority, prompting reflection on the role of dialogue in various societal contexts. The work is considered significant for its exploration of power dynamics and intellectual openness within changing historical and religious environments.