Nature and Culture in the Iliad

By focusing on the story of Hector, James M. Redfield presents an imaginative perspective not only on theIliadbut also on the whole of Homeric culture. In an expansive discussion informed by a reinterpretation of Aristotle'sPoeticsand 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 theIliadare 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.