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[727] δίφρος, here in the narrower sense of the platform of the car on which the riders stood. (Hence the breastwork which surrounded it in front and at both sides is called “ἐπιδιφριάς,” 10.475. “ὄχεα”, which is always used in the plural, implies the whole complex body of the chariot, including axle, pole, etc.). This platform is composed of straps strained tight, and interwoven, which formed a springy surface such as would save the charioteer from the jolting of rough ground. This device is known to have been employed in Egyptian chariots, and gives a simple explanation of the phrase ἐντέταται which has puzzled commentators (cf. also 10.263, Od. 19.577, Od. 23.201 “ἐν δ᾽ ἐτἅνυσσ᾽ ἱμάντα βοός”, to form a springy bed). See Wilkinson Ancient Egyptians i. p. 227, J. H. S. v. 192.

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

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