The Authoress of the Odyssey

ebook Where and when she wrote, who she was, the use she made of the Iliad, and how the poem grew under her hands

By Samuel Butler

cover image of The Authoress of the Odyssey

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In 'The Authoress of the Odyssey', Butler proposes a paradigm-shifting hypothesis that the Homeric epic 'The Odyssey' may have been scribed not by the fabled Homer, but by a woman. Through meticulous analysis of its narrative manners, themes, and stylistic signatures, Butler deciphers elements within the text that suggest a female perspicacity, particularly in its renderings of domestic life and social arrangements. Butler's literary investigation is not only a work of early feminist scholarship but also a significant contribution to the field of Homeric studies, raising provocative questions about authorship and literary history in a context predominantly governed by masculine perspectives. Samuel Butler, a Victorian iconoclast, writer, and critic, pursued a rich palette of interests and was known for his contentious opinions. His own experiences, keen observances from everyday life, and intellectual engagement with a variety of arts and sciences likely paved the path for his bold analysis in 'The Authoress of the Odyssey'. Emboldened by Butler's richly diverse pursuits, this particular inquiry into the alleged feminine genesis of one of Western literature's cornerstone texts stands as a testament to his unorthodox thinking and perpetual quest for truth beyond traditional scholarship. Butler's work manifests as a seminal read for enthusiasts of classical literature, offering a provocative examination that challenges seasoned scholars and new readers alike to revisit the foundations of literary lore. 'The Authoress of the Odyssey' is more than literary criticism; it is an impetus for dialogue on gender, authorship, and the authority of canonical texts. Those passionate about literary history, feminist theory, and the evolution of narrative forms will find Butler's arguments both enlightening and instrumental in broadening the conversation around the Homeric epics and their mysterious origins.
The Authoress of the Odyssey