Blameless Aegisthus Revisited

Abstract

Abstract In this article I offer a new interpretation of the puzzling phrase ἀµύµονος Αἰγίσθοιο at Od. 1.29 by focusing on the context of Od. 1.29-31. A closer analysis of the passage within the narrative logic of the proem strongly suggests that Zeus, after the departure of Poseidon, should think of Odysseus. While Zeus’ opening speech is to be understood as a covert signal to Athena, Homer’s audience is invited to recognize the speech’s direct relevance to Odysseus: the narrator deliberately utilizes the apparent incongruity of the phrase ‘blameless Aegisthus’ to alert the audience to its significance. Not only is the epithet ἀµύµων most frequently attributed to Odysseus in the Odyssean tradition, but also the formulaic combination between Zeus (ἴστω νῦν Ζεύς) and ‘blameless Odysseus’ (Ὀδυσῆος ἀµύµονος) helps the audience to reflect upon the epic hero’s fate and deeds.