Nostalgias for Homer in Greek Literature of the Roman Empire

This book investigates how versions of Trojan War narratives written in Greek in the first through fifth centuries C.E. created nostalgias for audiences. It contrasts Quintus of Smyrna's epic Posthomerica with other responses to nostalgia for Homeric narratives in Greek literature of the Roman Empire, which re-created Homeric narratives but did not contradict them. Quintus strikes a compromise by re-imagining Homeric narrative with new characters and scenarios while retaining the aesthetics of the Iliad and Odyssey.

Format: Hardback
Length: 142 pages
Publication date: 05 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating volume delves into the profound impact of Trojan War narratives written in Greek during the first to fifth centuries C.E. on the hearts and minds of audiences. In the realm of ancient education, the Iliad and the Odyssey served as invaluable models, guiding students in their pursuit of mastery of the Greek language and literature. The ruling elites, recognizing the value of preserving the rich heritage of Greek literature, actively fostered a culture of nostalgia by encouraging the re-creation of these ancient masterpieces. This book embarks on a fascinating exploration of the diverse responses to this nostalgic climate, particularly in the case of the epic poem Posthomerica by the third-century C.E. poet Quintus of Smyrna. Positioned as a sequel to the Iliad and a prequel to the Odyssey, Posthomerica stands out as a unique and nuanced response to the longing for Homer's epics. By adopting a middle-ground approach, Quintus' poem offers a distinctive perspective on nostalgia, contrasting it with other interpretations found in Greek literature of the Roman Empire.

One notable contrast arises from the works of certain authors who challenge pivotal events of the Iliad and Odyssey, such as the Trojan Speech by the first-century orator Dio Chrysostom, which asserts that the Trojan hero Hector did not perish as depicted in the Iliad. In contrast, other authors chose to re-create Homeric narratives without contradicting them, introducing their own creative twists and embellishments while preserving the core essence of the original stories. Quintus, in his epic Posthomerica, strikes a remarkable balance. He re-imagines Homeric narrative by introducing new characters and scenarios, while simultaneously retaining the aesthetic beauty and grandeur of the Iliad and Odyssey.

Nostalgias for Homer in Greek Literature of the Roman Empire holds immense appeal to students and scholars engaged in the study of Homeric reception and the Greek literature of the Roman Empire. It also captivates those with a deep interest in classical literature and reception, offering a rich tapestry of insights into the enduring power of Homeric narratives. Through its meticulous exploration, this book sheds light on the complex interplay between nostalgia, artistic creativity, and the preservation of cultural heritage, providing a valuable contribution to our understanding of the literary and cultural landscape of ancient Greece.

Weight: 439g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032456560