Final answer:
During Homer's time, the minstrel played a vital role in reciting and singing epic poems, preserving ancient Greek values, and educating people on different aspects of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
During Homer's time, the role of the minstrel was to recite and sing epic poems, such as The Iliad and The Odyssey, which were passed down orally for centuries. These traveling singers played a crucial role in preserving and spreading ancient Greek values, beliefs, and practices.
The minstrels celebrated arete, a Greek virtue meaning excellence, and depicted the struggles and achievements of heroes, as well as the limitations imposed by nature, chance, and the gods.
They entertained and educated people, providing instruction on various aspects of life, including war, child-rearing, and resolving conflicts.