The use of anonymous characters in Greek tragedy : the shaping of heroes / by Florence Yoon.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Yoon, Florence, 1981-

Series:

Mnemosyne, bibliotheca classica Batava. Supplementum ; 344.

Mnemosyne supplements ; volume 344

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Characters and characteristics in literature.

Greek drama (Tragedy)--History and criticism.

Greek drama (Tragedy).

Greek drama (Tragedy)--Characters.

Mythology, Greek.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (190 p.)

Edition:

1st ed.

Place of Publication:

Leiden ; Boston : Brill, 2012.

Language Note:

English

Summary:

Anonymous characters appear in almost every extant Greek Tragedy, yet they have long been overlooked in critical scholarship. This book argues that the creation and use of anonymous figures is an important tool in the transformation of traditional mythological heroes into unique dramatic characters. Through close reading of the passages in which nameless characters appear, this study demonstrates the significant impact of their speech, actions, and identity on the characterization of the particular named heroes to whom they are attached. Exploring the boundaries between anonymity and naming in mythico-historical drama, the book draws attention to an important but neglected aspect of the genre, suggesting a new perspective from which to read, perform, and appreciate Greek Tragedy.

Contents:

Preliminary Material

Introduction: “What’s in a Name?”

Classes

Individuals

Special Cases

Contrasts and Comparisons

Conclusion

Bibliography

Index.

Notes:

Description based upon print version of record.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

1-283-55117-9

9786613863621

90-04-23343-1

OCLC:

808488647

Publisher Number:

10.1163/9789004233430 DOI