The Use of the Gnome in Homer's Odyssey
Abstract
The dramatic nature of the Odyssey is clearly evident from a study of its structure. The present division of the poem into books was certainly made by some one keenly aware of dramatic occasions, as a consideration of the close of each book will show. A more essential dramatic division 1 presents the poem in six parts of four books each, and of approximately equal length. A device is used showing that this was the division of the poet. This is the use of a "Council" at the beginning of each part, except the third. Books i-iv open with the council of the gods discussing things essential to the poem as a whole. One point, the actual vengeance upon the suitors, is left to be first taken up at the second council opening books v-viii. The action 2 of the first division includes hints, and prophecy of, 4 and wishes for the vengeance, which are substantiated 5 by the decree of Zeus in the second council.
Subject Area
Literature|Classical literature
Recommended Citation
Mulholland, Sidney J., "The Use of the Gnome in Homer's Odyssey" (1937). ETD Collection for Fordham University. AAI28960366.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/dissertations/AAI28960366
