The object of the research is the historical contact zone between states, peoples, and cultures – the Roman-Iranian frontier, which existed for about eight centuries. The subject of the research is the Roman-Iranian frontier in the 2nd century AD and the peculiarities of its perception and reflection in the works of Lucian of Samosata. The aim is to examine human development in the conditions of the frontier and reflect on these processes in his creative work. Works that have philosophical, rhetorical, and literary-satirical significance allow for a particular perspective (and are considered from a historical point of view as an important source of personal character, and at times the only remaining source) and highlight the problem of the influence of personality on interaction processes in the frontier in specific historical situations. The task of the research is to analyze the works "The Dream of Lucian," "On the Syrian Goddess," "The Years," and some others in terms of their connection to the history of the Roman-Iranian frontier in the 2nd century AD. The study employs comparative, source-based, and analytical methods, relying on a systemic approach. The methodological basis consists of theories of border spaces examined in the context of historical sciences. Methodological theories of the role of personality in history (the creative personality on the frontier) are also considered. This research reveals the issue of various aspects of interaction: from sharp conflicts to peaceful coexistence – between Rome and Parthia in the 2nd century AD and its consequences for the states and peoples in the bordering territories of these powers. The current historical situation is viewed through the lens of the works of Lucian of Samosata, a contemporary of these events. The article uncovers the entire picture of political and cultural contradictions and military conflicts arising in these territories, as well as reveals the mechanisms that give rise to destructive processes stemming from the overall decline in cultural levels and increased aggressiveness of the populations in the border regions. Through Lucian's eyes, we see the vices of that society – the activity of destructive religious cults and sexual depravity. The problem of identity of individuals of that era also prominently runs through Lucian's works. The conducted research serves as a foundation for further study of this historical period from historical, cultural, sociological, philosophical, and socio-psychological perspectives, providing groundwork for specialists in these fields.
Kamyshev et al. (Sun,) studied this question.