Wednesday, 8/21 - Discuss Leithart's "Intro" Conclusion and begin J4 - Intro to Ancient Epic

THE EQUINE THAT IS TROJAN

• P&P

• Discuss J3 reading and take notes.  

• Begin J4 

HW (due block day) 

J4 – Heroes (43-51): “Introduction: Ancient Epic”

1.      What is the definition of an epic?

2.      What does an epic recount and include?

3.      Describe the oral tradition from which epic’s seeds first sprouted?

4.      List, define, and give one example of each of the standard epic poetic devices.

5.      What meter did Homer compose in? Why is it called this?

6.      Define and discuss the chiasm (and concentric or “ring” structures) as a textual structuring unit.

7.      What effects do these structures achieve?

8.      What do we know about Hesiod, the alleged author of Theogony and Works and Days?

9.      What do we know about Homer, supposed author (in some way) of the Iliad and (possibly) the Odyssey?