Homer: Iliad Book III

Book III of the Iliad is diverse, moving between intimate scenes in Troy and scenes on the battlefield. It describes a major ritual, assigns a major role to divine intervention, introduces and characterizes the main Trojan actors, and reveals more about their Greek counterparts. The commentary discusses Homeric narrative styles, illustrating their economy and sophisticated handling of different time-scales. It also situates the Iliad in its cultural and historical contexts, considering the relationships between Greece, the Anatolian, Mesopotamian, and ancient Indian cultures. An account of Troy's relationships with the Hittite empire and the question of the historicity of the Trojan War is provided, as well as a full historical account of Homeric language. The edition is indispensable for students and instructors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

One of the most diverse books in the Iliad, Book III spans a wide range of scenes, from the intimate heart of Troy to the intense and comedic battles on the battlefield. It vividly depicts a significant ritual in an elaborate oath-swearing ceremony, assigns a prominent role to divine intervention, introduces and characterizes the main Trojan actors, and sheds light on their Greek counterparts. The commentary delves into the styles of Homeric narrative, highlighting its efficiency and sophisticated handling of various time-scales. It contextualizes the Iliad within its broader cultural and historical frameworks, exploring the relationships between Greece, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and ancient India, particularly in terms of shared story-patterns and ritual practices. An account is provided of Troy's interactions with the Hittite empire and the contentious issue of the historicity of the Trojan War. Additionally, a comprehensive historical account of Homeric language is included, making this edition an invaluable resource for students and instructors alike.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781107698024