The Artistry of the Homeric Simile - by William C Scott (Paperback)

About the Book

An examination of the aesthetic qualities of the Homeric simile

Book Synopsis

The similes in Homer are treasure troves. They describe scenes of Greek life that are not presented in their simplest form anywhere else: landscapes and seascapes, storms and calm weather, fighting among animals, civic disputes, athletic contests, horse races, community entertainment, women involved in their daily tasks, men running their farms and orchards. These basic paratactic additions to the narrative show how the Greeks found and developed parallels between two scenes--each of which elucidated and interpreted the other--then expressed those scenes in effective poetic language. In The Artistry of the Homeric Simile, Scott explores the variations and modifications that Homer employs in order to make similes blend expressively with the larger context. This engaging study will help unlock the richness of Homer for the modern reader.

Review Quotes

'Scott's work makes an important contribution to the study of the Homeric simile. Its strength lies in the presentation of a theory for simile analysis and for the manner in which similes blend with the narrative. Scholars will definitely benefit from employing Scott's observations, and it is hoped that this book find its way into future discussions of Homer."-- "Bryn Mawr Classical Review"

"This is an attractive and useful study of the Homeric simile and of its role in the performance and creation of Homeric poetry."-- "The Classical Review"

Scott's work makes an important contribution to the study of the Homeric simile. Its strength lies in the presentation of a theory for simile analysis and for the manner in which similes blend with the narrative. Scholars will definitely benefit from employing Scott's observations, and it is hoped that this book find its way into future discussions of Homer. Bryn Mawr Classical Review"

This is an attractive and useful study of the Homeric simile and of its role in the performance and creation of Homeric poetry. The Classical Review"

Bryn Mawr Classical Review"

The Classical Review"

"Scott's work makes an important contribution to the study of the Homeric simile. Its strength lies in the presentation of a theory for simile analysis and for the manner in which similes blend with the narrative. Scholars will definitely benefit from employing Scott's observations, and it is hoped that this book find its way into future discussions of Homer." --Bryn Mawr Classical Review

About the Author

WILLIAM C. SCOTT is emeritus professor of classics at Dartmouth College. His previous publications include The Oral Nature of the Homeric Simile, Musical Design in Aeschylean Theater, Plato's The Republic with Richard W. Sterling, and Musical Design in Sophoclean Theater.