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Nov 11Liked by Joel Christensen

This is the second time today that Nestor, Diomedes, and the Trojan War have appeared together in my reading. Earlier today I was reading David Konstan’s chapter on ‘Fear’ in his book, The Emotions of the Ancient Greeks. That earlier reading was focused on fear, courage, shame, and (perceptions of) running away. Konstan was drawing parallels between Hector’s ‘running away from’ Achilles and Diomedes’ acceding to Nestor’s counsel that they should ‘retire’ from the battle that was not going in their favor (Iliad 8).

I love when these little confluences occur.

Thank you!

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Book 8 is wild! Erwin Cook's article on it is my 'go-to'.

I keep finding myself returning to the Iliad more and more....

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I will have to look at it. It is some years since I last read Iliad. I could use a good bit of ‘rage’ just now.

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My Greek is very not good but could οὐ τέλος ἵκεο μύθων = “you haven’t told the whole story”?

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It could! But based on early Greek use, it could also mean "purpose" or "goal"

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