Literature: Techniques and Composition

Literature: Techniques and Composition

Epic Poetry

• Epics like the Iliad and the Odyssey are long, narrative poems that are central to Greek literature.
• Homeric verse is written in a pattern known as dactylic hexameter, a rhythm based on syllable length.
• These poems often begin with an invocation to the Muses, the nine goddesses of inspiration.

Epithets and Similes

• Homeric epics frequently use epithets, descriptive phrases used to characterise people or things. Examples include “rosy-fingered Dawn,” and “swift-footed Achilles.”
• Similes, or comparisons using ‘like’ or ‘as,’ are another trademark of Homeric poetry, often used to add dramatic flair to scenes or descriptions.

Structure and Themes

• Homer’s work tends to follow a particular structure, often beginning in medias res (in the middle of things), then using flashbacks and predictions to fill in key background information.
• Recurring themes include honour, courage, the will of the gods, and the fate of heroes.

Oral Tradition

• The Homeric epics are believed to have been recited orally for centuries before they were written down.
• They include certain patterns and phrases, known as formulas, to help the bard remember them.

Characters and Motivation

• The characters of Homer’s world are driven by a range of motivations, such as the desire for glory, to fulfill their duty, or to achieve revenge.
• Heroes often have a tragic flaw or hamartia, such as Achilles’ pride or Odysseus’ hubris, which leads to their downfall.

The Role of the Gods

• The Olympian gods play a central role in the action of The Iliad and The Odyssey, often interacting directly with the human characters and influencing events.
• Different gods support different sides in the Trojan War, reflecting the themes of political conflict and the fickleness of fate.

Remember, analysing the Homeric World involves identifying these techniques and understanding their significance in the context of the narrative.