- First, let me read you a couple of paragraphs out of Leithart...I will be your fast forward button on that reading.
- Review the assignment...Chapters 1-4 and an essay by Monday.
- Just for kicks...let's write some epithets for each other. Click here to share them!
- Get some tea
- Disperse to get it done!
What is an Epithet? (Add this definition to your journals)
Sometimes called an Homeric epitaph, it is a recurring feature in both epics. Epithet comes form the Greek for putting (something) on (something). It is a tag or descriptive quality that can be used on its own or together with the real name. They add descriptive flavor as well as complete the needed syllables to create the iambic hexameter. They can also serve as a mneumonic device to help the listeners remember what they have already heard about this character. They are usually compound adjectives full of memorable imagery.
Telemachus has epithets such as poised thoughtful and discrete (depending on your translation).
Athena is often paired with the phrase pallas (which refers to her youthful strength) and grey-eyed.
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