Table of Contents

Introduction: the perfect surveyor; 1. The Eusynoptic Iliad: visualizing space and movement in the poem; 2. Paths and measures: epic space and the Odyssey; 3. The world in the hand: Anaximander, Pherecydes, and the invention of cartography; 4. Map and narrative: Herodotus' Histories; 5. Losing the way home: Xenophon's Anabasis; 6. Finding (things at) home: Xenophon's Oeconomicus.

Promotional Information

Traces a shift in authorial perspective in ancient Greek narrative inspired by advances in cartography, travel, and geometry.

About the Author

Alex Purves is Assistant Professor of Classics at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Reviews

"Space and Time in Ancient Greek Narrative is a demanding, yet rewarding read, full of original insights and arresting observations..." --BMCR

"It’s beautifully written and will open up new avenues of exploration for many kinds of readers: those interested in historiography, cartography, Homeric epic, or narrative generally. Careful research is evident in the footnotes (which, while carrying full sets of citations, are admirably brief) and in the up-to-date bibliography." --The Classical Journal Online

"...its questions and observations are probing and deeply engaging—expanding our horizons." --Classical Review