Aristotle’s Naturalistic Interpretation of Odyssey 12

Abstract

This final chapter considers the textual evidence for Aristotle’s (possible or probable) discussions of three episodes in Odyssey 12, namely, concerning the Sirens, the ambrosia-bearing doves, and the Cattle of the Sun. All three have historically been treated allegorically. Further, as some contemporary scholars take the fragments on these doves and cattle to be evidence for Aristotle interpreting Homer allegorically, this is an appropriate place to return to the issue of whether Aristotle ever employs allegorical interpretation, and as such it serves as an appropriate conclusion to the volume. The essential nature of what Aristotle is doing in his Homeric Problems is to defend Homer (where possible) according to rational principles of literary criticism, but without relying on allegorical interpretation.