Homer, Iliad

Not available for Mods IIA

This paper involves study of the Iliad as a poem generated by an oral tradition, and consideration of the appropriate critical methods to apply to such a work. You are expected to consider aspects such as narrative technique, structure, characterisation, heroic values, and the poetic representation of the divine world in relation to the human. Knowledge of the whole Iliad is required.

Mods IA and IC: you must read books I–IX and XVI–XXIV in Greek.

Mods IB: you are expected to study four key books (I, IX, XXII and XXIV) in Greek.

Mods IIB: you are expected to read five key books (I, VI, IX, XXII, XXIV) in Greek.

The lecture courses on Homer will be equally valuable to all.

In the examination paper all candidates must attempt translation of two passages, scansion of a short passage, and either three essay questions or two essays and two commentaries on short passages (a choice is given). For Mods IB and IIB there are essay and commentary questions on some key books (Section A) and essays on the poem more widely (Section B); at least one question from each section must be offered.