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Formal analysis of recognition scenes in the Odyssey

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 February 2012

Peter Gainsford
Peter Gainsford
Affiliation:
Victoria University of Wellington
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Abstract

Type-scenes have been studied and analysed for over seventy years. This paper presents a more detailed analysis of one type-scene, the ‘recognition scene’, than has previously been attempted, with the aim of moving towards a better-structured understanding of the ‘syntax’ of type-scenes generally. The structure of the recognition scene is dissected into motifs and ‘moves’, all of which are tabulated; this is the core of the analysis. The ensuing points of clarification elaborate on the definitions and assumptions built into the analysis. Following this is an assessment of the ‘syntax’ and quantifiable elements of the recognition scene. The discussion closes with a general assessment of the more literary face of recognition scenes, discussing them in the context of the plan of the second half of the Odyssey.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Journal of Hellenic Studies , Volume 123 , November 2003 , pp. 41 - 59
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies 2003

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