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January 24, 2026The Classical Quarterly0 citations

The Slaughter of Goats in Odyssey Book 9 as an Anticipatory Doublet

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SRSteve Reece

Key Points

  • This analysis examines the literary device of anticipatory doublets in the Odyssey, particularly in Book 9.
  • Literary analysis of narrative structure and symbolism
  • Comparison of goat slaughter scenes in Book 9 and Ithaca
  • Examination of geographic descriptions and their significance
  • Identification of parallels between Goat Island and Ithaca
  • Discussion of 108 goats as a symbolic representation of arrogance
  • Conclusions on narrative techniques enhancing themes of anticipation and fate

Abstract

Abstract The account in Odyssey Book 9 of Odysseus’ safe arrival by ship on ‘Goat Island’ off the coast of the land of the Cyclopes, the elaborate description of the geography of the island itself, and even the specific detail of Odysseus and his shipmates slaughtering with bows and spears 108 + 1 wild goats all work together to serve as an ‘anticipatory doublet’ of the account in the second half of the epic of Odysseus’ safe arrival by ship on the island of Ithaca, the elaborate description of the geography of the island itself, and even the specific detail of Odysseus and his comrades slaughtering with bow and spears the 108 arrogant suitors + 1 treacherous goatherd.

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Cite This Study

Steve Reece (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6974610cbb9d90c67120ae62https://doi.org/10.1017/s0009838825100992
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