The Art of Homer's "Odyssey"

Christopher Nolan’s recent adaptation of the Homer’s Odyssey to the screen has generated considerable discussion among the general public and renewed interest in what remains one of world literature's most powerful and interesting works of poetic art. All are invited to join Zephyr as we return to this classic poem with a special eye for Homer’s poetic craftsmanship—and especially the specifically literary effects which necessarily elude the camera. We will anchor our discussion around Book XIX of the Odyssey. Odysseus here at last meets again his long-suffering wife Penelope—but their exchange is not a happy reunion. Instead, we witness a complex exchange in which Odysseus carefully conceals his identity behind a screen of falsehoods. This book also contains the famous and thrilling moment of recognition between Odysseus and his nurse Eurykleia and Penelope’s resolution to challenge the suitors in what will precipitate the poem's dramatic climax.

The text of Book XIX may be found here. Participants should read the text carefully in advance.

Dinner will be provided to all attendees.

About the speaker

Barbara Clayton received her B.A. from Oberlin College, an M.A. in French literature from Princeton University, and a Ph.D. in Classics from Stanford University. She is the author of A Penelopean Poetics:  Reweaving the Feminine in Homer’s Odyssey. She currently teaches for Stanford Continuing Studies and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Santa Clara.