Homer on poetry: two passages in the Odyssey

Key Points

• Poetry serves to recount heroic deeds accurately, lacking a didactic purpose.
• Key evidence includes passages 1.353-5 and 8.523-31 from the Odyssey.
• The examination focuses on the bard's role in storytelling rather than moralizing.
• This interpretation emphasizes the importance of fidelity to the narrative over moral guidance.

Abstract