Greek epic poetry emerged from oral traditions, passed down by bards using hexameter and formulaic language. These poems began in medias res, used epic similes, and employed distinctive linguistic techniques like dactylic hexameter and stock phrases.

Homeric epics featured key conventions like invoking the Muse, catalogues, and epithets. They explored themes of heroic code, divine intervention, and nostos. Structural elements included type scenes, ekphrasis, and the concept of xenia.

Origins and Style

Oral Tradition and Poetic Structure

• Oral tradition formed the foundation of Greek epic poetry, passed down through generations of bards
• Hexameter served as the primary metrical form, consisting of six metrical feet per line
• Formulaic language employed repeated phrases and epithets to aid memorization and performance
• In medias res technique began stories in the middle of action, creating immediate engagement
• Epic simile used extended comparisons to vividly illustrate scenes or characters (shield of Achilles compared to the cosmos)

Linguistic and Narrative Techniques

• Dactylic hexameter rhythm provided a distinctive sound and cadence to epic poetry
• Stock phrases and repetitive elements helped maintain consistency across oral performances
• Episodic structure allowed for flexible storytelling and easier memorization by performers
• Ring composition organized narrative elements in a symmetrical pattern
• Catalogue technique listed characters, ships, or armies to convey scale and importance (Catalogue of Women in Hesiod's works)

Homeric Conventions

Narrative Devices and Character Development

• Invocation of the Muse opened epics, calling upon divine inspiration for the poet's tale
• Catalogue of ships listed Greek forces in the Iliad, showcasing the scope of the Trojan War
• Epithets attached descriptive phrases to characters, emphasizing their key attributes (swift-footed Achilles)
• Heroic code governed behavior of epic heroes, emphasizing courage, honor, and glory
• Kleos represented the glory and renown heroes sought to achieve through their deeds

Structural Elements and Thematic Motifs

• Type scenes recurred throughout epics, such as arming scenes or guest-host interactions
• Divine intervention shaped plot developments, with gods actively participating in mortal affairs
• Ekphrasis described works of art within the narrative, adding depth and symbolism (Shield of Achilles)
• Nostos theme centered on the hero's journey home, often fraught with challenges (Odysseus's return to Ithaca)
• Xenia explored the Greek concept of hospitality, crucial to the social fabric of the epic world