The History of Literature 561 Homer and His Iliad (with Robin Lane Fox) | A Quick Hit of Witches (with Katherine Howe)
Oct 30, 2023
Robin Lane Fox, an esteemed scholar and author, shares insights into Homer's intriguing identity and the timeless relevance of the Iliad, emphasizing its profound cultural impact. He explores the dynamic interplay between gods and human fate within the epic. Katherine Howe, an editor and author known for her work on historical witchcraft, dives into the connections between literature and witchcraft, particularly reflecting on the Salem witch trials. Together, they highlight how ancient themes resonate in modern contexts, linking war, literature, and societal beliefs.
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First Encounter With Homer At 13
- Fox recalls first reading Book 6 at age 13 while his hands were still muddy from football.
- That early encounter with Greek Homer magnetized him and set his lifelong devotion.
Homer's Singular Artistic Power
- Robin Lane Fox sees Homer as a singular genius whose craft mixes pace, characterization, and divine perspective.
- He argues the poem's 'Homeric irony' and relentless poignancy give it enduring emotional power.
Similes Bridge Heroic And Everyday Worlds
- Homer uses extended similes to connect aristocratic heroism to ordinary life and nature.
- These similes act as a counterpoint that deepens emotional and social texture in the poem.
