The Epithetic Phrases for the Homeric Gods: A Repertory of the Descriptive Expressions of the Divinities of the Iliad and the Odyssey

Homeric epithets such as ‘earth-shaker’ Poseidon, ‘ox-eyed’ Hera and ‘grey-eyed’ Athena are among the most recognisable features of the Iliad and Odyssey. James H. Dee’s study provides a systematic repertory of the descriptive expressions applied to the gods in the two epics, making it possible to examine their language with a precision that ordinary indexes cannot provide.

The repertory extends beyond formal divine epithets to include expressions for family relationships, terms of reproach, adverbial phrases and other recurring forms of description. Designed primarily as a reference tool for close study of Homeric diction, it is particularly useful to students and scholars interested in formulaic language, characterisation, oral-poetic technique and the representation of divinity in Greek epic. This Routledge Revivals edition makes Dee’s specialised study available again in print.