Apollonius Rhodius, Herodotus and Historiography

Examines the relationship of Apollonius of Rhodes' Argonautica with Herodotus' Histories. Argues that it uses Herodotean historiography as a key intertext in order to manipulate the reader's generic expectations for an epic poem and to complicate the relationship between the contemporary Hellenistic Mediterranean and the distant mythological past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book delves into the intricate relationship between the Argonautica of Apollonius of Rhodes and other texts, specifically focusing on its connection with the Histories of Herodotus. Through a comprehensive analysis, it explores the presence of Herodotus' text in the former, examining various aspects such as the employment of historiographical discourse, narrative structures, character presentation and description, aetiology and explanation patterns, portrayal of ethnic groups, depiction of kingship and tyranny, and the relationship between specific passages in both texts. The consequences of this intertextual relationship are profound, as the Argonautica utilizes Herodotean historiography as a strategic tool to challenge and complicate the reader's generic expectations for an epic poem. It also deepens the exploration of the complex relationship between the contemporary Hellenistic Mediterranean world and the distant mythological Argonautic past.

The Argonautica of Apollonius of Rhodes is a remarkable work of literature that has captivated readers for centuries. In this book, we explore one aspect of its relationship with other texts, specifically the Histories of Herodotus.

The particular intertextual relationship examined is the presence of Herodotus' text in the Argonautica. We delve into the ways in which Apollonius employs characteristics and features of historiographical discourse, narrative structures, presentation and description of characters, aetiology and patterns of explanation, portrayal of ethnic groups, depiction of kingship and tyranny, and the relationship between specific passages in both texts.

By examining these intertextual connections, we gain a deeper understanding of the Argonautica and its place within the broader context of ancient Greek literature. The consequences for the interpretation of the poem are profound, as the Argonautica employs Herodotean historiography as a key intertext to manipulate and frustrate the reader's generic expectations for an epic poem. It also complicates the relationship between the contemporary Hellenistic Mediterranean world and the distant mythological Argonautic past.

Through a comprehensive analysis of the Argonautica and its intertextual relationship with Herodotus, this book offers valuable insights into the rich tapestry of ancient Greek literature and its enduring legacy.

ISBN-13: 9781108729253