Best of the Argonauts: The Redefinition of the Epic Hero in Book One of Apollonius' Argonautica

James J. Clauss' Argonautica explores Apollonius' poem, redefining the epic hero and creating a more realistic and less awesome Jason. He illuminates two features of Apollonius' narrative style, such as allusions to other poetry and the balanced structural organization of his episodes. This title is part of UC Press' Voices Revived program, which commemorates the mission of UC Press to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 28 May 2021
Publisher: University of California Press

This profound exploration of Book One of the Argonautica sets Jason free from his portrayal as the ineffective hero in Apollonius' epic poem. James J. Clauss contends that by asking, "Who is the best of the Argonauts?" Apollonius redefines the epic hero and crafts Jason, a character more relatable and less awe-inspiring than his Homeric predecessors. He portrays Jason as vulnerable, reliant on the assistance of others, even morally questionable, yet ultimately triumphant.

Clauss' interpretation brings Apollonius' intricate and demanding poem to life, shedding light on two notable aspects of the poet's narrative style. Firstly, he employs numerous allusions to the poetry of others, particularly Homer, throughout the poem. Secondly, the structure of Apollonius' episodes is meticulously crafted, creating a balanced and engaging narrative.

The book delves into the poet's subtextual interplay and explores his tendency to emphasize the manipulation of other poetry through ring composition. By examining these elements, Clauss provides a fresh perspective on Apollonius' work and contributes to our understanding of ancient Greek literature.

This title is part of UC Press' Voices Revived program, which celebrates the University of California Press' commitment to discovering and nurturing exceptional minds, providing them with a platform to express their ideas, reach a wider audience, and have a lasting impact. Voices Revived leverages print-on-demand technology to make high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again, drawing from a backlist dating back to 1893. Originally published in 1993, this title is now revitalized and available to readers anew.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 174 x 445 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520309425