Article Information
Original Research Article | Open Access | Peer Reviewed
Bards in the Odyssey
Anika Elema
Abstract
This work approaches the significance of oral tradition in Homer’s Odyssey. Oral tradition– the
transference of stories, history, and values through spoken word, song, and performance– was a
prominent method of communication in preliterate societies. Bards, as respected artists of various
mediums, were believed to channel divine inspiration from the Muses. In their cultural role they were
elevated as conveyors of history, reinforcing their authority and legitimacy. Immediate diegetic mode is
discussed in its utilization to create emotional engagement and immediacy. Exploring the descriptions of
bards Phemius and Demodocus provides insight into the perception of the Muses, from a symbolic figure
representing artistic mastery to literal divine inspiration.
Full Text: PDF |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.30845/ijhss.vol15p27
Article History:
Received: 30 May 2025 | Accepted: 1 July 2025 | Published: 10 August 2025
Reviewer(s):
Nur Hazimah binti Nor Hashim, Centre for the Advancement of Language Competence (CALC), University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia.
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Address for Correspondence:
Anika Elema, 25565 hidden mesa road, 93940, Monterey, California, USA.
[email protected]
[email protected]
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