From Wrath to Punishment: Indirect Communication Between Poseidon and Zeus in Homer’s Odyssey 13.125–158

Abstract

Abstract This paper discusses the modes of communication between the two speakers in Poseidon’s protest before Zeus in Odyssey 13.125–158, which results from the Phaeacians facilitating Odysseus’ arrival in Ithaca. As it appears, both interlocutors employ sophisticated techniques that revolve around the mega-theme of Poseidon’s menis against Odysseus. Even though the Sea-god conceals his anger, I maintain that it lurks in the background, and defines the discourse of both speakers in making their claims. On the one hand, Poseidon lets his rage emerge indirectly through his desire for vengeance at the Phaeacians; on the other hand, Zeus manages to negotiate the wrath theme while suppressing the divine decision that defied the Sea-god in the first place. Concealment of aspects of the story and allusions to otherwise suppressed objectives appear extensively in the present passage, which therefore constitutes an excellent case study in the tactics of the Odyssean gods from the angle of indirect communication.