The Human Condition According to the Similes in Homer’s Iliad

Abstract

The article analyses the similes of the Iliad with a particular focus on how human life is represented in this “parallel world”. It argues that in a clear majority of cases human activity is presented in a negative light. A quick survey of the relevant similes gives a sketch of human life and the preponderously negative undertones. The final part attempts to give reasons for this predominantly negative portrait, including a brief comparison with the Odyssey, the similes of which do not share this sombre outlook.