Speech and narrative: characterisation techniques in the "Aeneid"

Mackie, Christopher John (1984) Speech and narrative: characterisation techniques in the "Aeneid". PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

The thesis provides a comprehensive analysis of the characterisation
of two of the major figures in the Aeneid, Aeneas
and Turnus. Particular attention is paid to their direct
speeches, all of which are examined and, where relevant,
compared to Homeric models and parallels. To this purpose
considerable use is made of the indices in Knauer's Die
Aeneis und Homer. A more general comparison is made between
the dramatic (direct speech) role of Aeneas and those of
Homer's Achilles (Iliad) and Odysseus (Odyssey). An appraisal
is made (from the viewpoint of depiction of character) of
the relationship between the direct and indirect speeches
in the Aeneid. Reasons are given to suggest that it is not
mere chance, or for the sake of variety, that certain speeches
of Aeneas and Turnus are expressed in oratio obliqua.
In addition, the narrative portrayal of Aeneas and Turnus
is considered in apposition to that of the speeches.
A distinction is drawn between Vergil's direct method
of characterisation (direct speeches) and his indirect
methods (narrative/oratio obliqua).
Inevitably, the analysis involves major consideration
of the Roman values which pervade the work. All speeches,
thoughts and actions of Aeneas and Turnus are assessed
in terms of pietas, impietas, furor, virtus, ratio,
clementia, humanitas (etc.). It is shown that individual
concepts (such as pietas and impietas) are reflected in
Vergil's direct and indirect methods of characterisation.
The workings of fate and their relevance to the pietas concept
are discussed throughout.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Subjects: P Language and Literature > PA Classical philology
• Colleges/Schools: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Classics
• Supervisor's Name: Walsh, Professor P. G.
• Date of Award: 1984
• Depositing User: Adam Swann
• Unique ID: glathesis:1984-7363
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 24 May 2016 10:27
• Last Modified: 24 May 2016 10:27
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/7363