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[104] The objection that the ancient critics made to this line probably was that it interferes with the play of suggestion which characterises the speech. It implies that the speaker is only a stranger offering help. But Ulysses is now supposing himself to be Ulysses (cp. l. 106). His aim is to lead rapidly up to the point at which he reveals himself to his son (l. 188). On the other hand the introduction of the name “Λαερτιάδης Ὀδυσσεύς” has some rhetorical value.

108-110 are three successive lines without a caesura in the middle. The rhythm is probably intended to mark the rising passion of the speaker. Throughout this speech Ulysses is on the verge of using language only suited to his own character.

Homer's Odyssey. W. Walter Merry. James Riddell. D. B. Monro. Oxford. Clarendon Press. 1886-1901.

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