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[371] πολέμοιο γεφύρας: this phrase recurs 8.378, 553, 11.160, 20.427. From 5.88-9 and 15.357 (cf. 21.245) it appears that “γέφυρα” implies a dam or causeway rather than what we should call a bridge. It is explained by the schol. “τὰς διόδους τῶν φαλάγγων”, the lines of open ground between the moving masses of men, who are perhaps likened to flowing water. It is especially used of the space between the hostile armies. ὀπιπεύεις, eyest, in a contemptuous sense, implying hesitation to advance.

The Iliad, edited, with apparatus criticus, prolegomena, notes, and appendices. Walter Leaf. London. Macmillan. 1900.

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