previous next

[120] It has been a matter of doubt whether the row of axes was set up within the “μέγαρον”, or outside in the “αὐλή”. The question is surely settled in favour of the former alternative by the procedure described, and especially by the repeated formula “ἂψ δ᾽ αὖτις κτλ.” (ll. 139, 166). The Suitors were to try in turn, according to the order in which they sat, counting from left to right. Each was to go to the threshold, make his effort with the bow, and return to his seat. Moreover, it is while this is proceeding that Ulysses goes out and reveals himself to Eumaeus and the neat-herd, unseen by any of the company in the “μέγαρον” (l. 229). And when Antinous proposes to leave the axes standing till the next day, it is because no one will come to the “μέγαρον” and take them up (l. 262).

The floor of the “μέγαρον” was not paved or boarded, but was of earth trodden hard (“γαῖαν ἔναξε”, l. 122): cp. 22. 455.

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 United States License.

An XML version of this text is available for download, with the additional restriction that you offer Perseus any modifications you make. Perseus provides credit for all accepted changes, storing new additions in a versioning system.

hide Display Preferences
Greek Display:
Arabic Display:
View by Default:
Browse Bar: