The Iliad
In Our Time
00:00
The Repetitiveness of the Language of Homa
The repetitiveness has to do with the technique used to compose without the aid of writing, so that you have formula ready made. The traditional language of homa reminds us of how the story ought to go and how things ought to be. So akilis is swift footed but for most of the poem, he's sulking motionless in his tent. He should be running on the battle field, chasing the enemy, as he eventually does at the end of the poem. But it is expressive because it it links everything to how it should be.
Transcript
Play full episode
