Silver epic catalogues

Abstract

This thesis aims to examine the detailed contents of epic catalogues from the Iliad through to the Silver epics, although it will concentrate upon the developments displayed in the latter period. The background picture built up by the lists of towns will be considered in addition to that created by the descriptions of the leaders: the basic topoi and the techniques employed in the background picture will be identified, and the motivation for their inclusion will be discussed. These elements will be used to gain a greater understanding of the nature of the catalogues' contents, and will be applied in close analyses of some of the Silver catalogues.