The Homeric epics

Timetable

Module aim (aims)

- to pass state-of-the-art knowledge of the subject matter of the lecture;

- to deepen one's knowledge of selected problems of classical culture;

- to pass knowledge of basic terms referring to ancient Greek literature;

- to show the basic features of Homeric epics;

- to develop the skill of their interpretation;

- to develop skills of applying the tools of specific methodological trends.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Syllabus

1. Homer as an oral-traditional poet.

 

2. Invocations of the Muses in the Iliad and in the Odyssey.

 

3. The anger-motif in the Iliad.

 

4. The protagonists of the Iliad.

 

5. Typical scenes in the Iliad.

 

6. The theme of nostos in the Odyssey.

 

7. Folk-tale motifs in the Odyssey.

 

8. Journey to the Underworld.

 

9. Women and goddesses.

 

10. The Homeric concept of society.

Reading list

M. Hammond, Homer. The Iliad, London 1987.

M. Hammond, Homer. The Odyssey, London 2000.

J. Latacz, Homer. His Art and His World, Ann Arbor 1996.

The additional literature to be announced in class.