Strange Instances of Time and Space in the Odyssey (Greek Studies: Interdisciplinary Approaches)

Strange Instances of Time and Space in the Odyssey explores several aspects of the Homeric Odyssey, focusing on the complex relationship between time and space in Odysseus' maritime wondering. Using nostos as a mega-theme, Menelaos Christopoulos closely examines Odysseus' trips to the strait of Skylla, the island of Calypso, and the Underworld, questioning the intriguing analogies between Odysseus, Penelope, and Telemachus and the end of Odysseus' reign in Ithaca. This book sets forth original arguments, such as that the murder of Palamedes could be the real reason for Poseidon's wrath; that the poem describes a clear-cut distinction between Odysseus and his companions, who perish without leaving any trace of their prior existence with the sole exception of Elpenor; and, finally, that the Odyssey advocates a new and subversive epic model of life based on the preservation of life rather than on heroic death and the pursuit of glory. Cover Half Title Series Page Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Preface Notes Acknowledgments Chapter 1: Trips, Ships, and Helmsmen in the Odyssey Notes Chapter 2: Onward and Backward Notes Chapter 3: Odysseus’ Crimes and the Prolonged Nostos Notes Chapter 4: Crossing Straits: From “We” to “I” Notes Chapter 5: Between Life and Death: Patroclus, Elpenor, the Suitors, and Odysseus’ Companions Notes Chapter 6: Leaving Calypso’s Island or Á La Recherche Du Temps Perdu Notes Epilogue Bibliography Index Nominum About the Author