Question

". . . and when they'd put aside desire for food and drink,

the Muse inspired the bard
to sing the famous deeds of fighting heroes—
the song whose fame had reached the skies those days:
The Strife Between Odysseus and Achilles, Peleus' Son..."

"The Strife Between Odysseus and Achilles, Peleus' Son." What type of literary work is this referencing, and why is it significant in the

Answer 1

The passage references epic poetry, specifically Homer's The Iliad and The Odyssey, which are seminal texts in Western literature. These works portray the Greek virtue of arete and have had a profound influence on later cultures and literature.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage you’re asking about references epic poetry, specifically the works of Homer—The Iliad and The Odyssey. These epics are considered foundational texts of Western literature and are significant for their portrayal of the ancient Greek virtue of arete, which is essential to the poems' themes of heroism and excellence. Homer's epic poems were originally part of an oral tradition and were first written down in the eighth century BCE. They include many layers of narrative, such as the Trojan War in The Iliad and Odysseus's journey in The Odyssey, and embody classical Greek principles, influencing later cultures and literature significantly.

Set in the context of the Greek Dark Ages, these epics were composed during a time when there were few other historical records, so they also serve as a rich source of information on ancient Greek values, beliefs, and practices. The Odyssey and The Iliad highlight the importance of heroism, the role of fate and the gods, and the quest for glory and honor.