Writing and the Origins of Greek Literature

Exploring the impact of writing on ancient Greek literature

Barry B Powell author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:16th Apr '07

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Writing and the Origins of Greek Literature cover

This book explores the relationship between writing and the development of archaic Greek literature, highlighting the impact of the Greek alphabet on literary traditions.

In Writing and the Origins of Greek Literature, the author provides a comprehensive exploration of the development of writing, particularly focusing on its historical context in the ancient Near East and Greece. The book delves into the intricate relationship between writing and the oral traditions that preceded it, shedding light on the origins of the Homeric poems and various challenges within oral studies. By examining the evolution of writing, the author reveals how these early forms of communication influenced the creation and transmission of literature.

Professor Powell emphasizes the significance of the Greek alphabetic writing system, arguing that it played a crucial role in shaping archaic Greek literature. Each chapter addresses specialized topics such as text, orality, myth, literacy, tradition, and memorization, all of which are interwoven with broader cultural themes. This structure allows readers to grasp how the transition from oral to written forms altered the landscape of storytelling and knowledge preservation in ancient societies.

The book also discusses the implications of the alphabetic revolution on Greek mythology, illustrating how the advent of written texts democratized these myths and led to the emergence of new narratives inspired by Eastern traditions. By connecting the dots between writing technology and literary development, Writing and the Origins of Greek Literature offers valuable insights into the foundational aspects of Western literary heritage.

' … a powerful and original book …' Ancient West & East

ISBN: 9780521036313

Dimensions: 234mm x 154mm x 12mm

Weight: 324g

228 pages