Nature and Culture in the Iliad

By focusing on the story of Hector, James M. Redfield presents an imaginative perspective not only on the Iliad but also on the whole of Homeric culture. In an expansive discussion informed by a reinterpretation of Aristotle's Poetics and a reflection on the human meaning of narrative art, the analysis of Hector leads to an inquiry into the fundamental features of Homeric culture and of culture generally in its relation to nature. Through Hector, as the "true tragic hero of the poem," the events and themes of the Iliad are understood and the function of tragedy within culture is examined. Redfield's work represents a significant application of anthropological perspectives to Homeric poetry. Originally published in 1975 (University of Chicago Press), this revised edition includes a new preface and concluding chapter by the author.

Preface to the Expanded Edition vii

Preface xi

Acknowledgments xvii

Introduction: Achilles and Hector 3

1. Imitation 30

2. Tragedy 69

3. Our Hero 99

4. Error 128

5. Purification 160

The Gods of the Iliad: An Amplification 225

Notes 249

References 291

Bibliography to the Expanded Edition 299

Index of Greek Words 301

Index 307