ENG 317U

Musings on Homeric hymns to Hermes

Couldn't help but think of the early exploits of Krishna, and some quick research brought up the fact that both Krishna and Hermes had mothers named some form of Maya/Maia.  Here is a link giving some interesting compare/contrast:  <http://www.khandro.net/Bud_mother.htm>
Haven't had time to read all of it since I am also trying to get through the Bacchae.

Anyone else have some info to share?

As far as the Hymns go, I am still trying to make up my mind which I enjoyed the most.  Hymn to Demeter seemed quite complete and Apollo (Apollo=A Chicken in Spanish... Sorry, bad joke, but I remember being told that by an ex-Mex boyfriend) is quite full of himself.  The Hymn to Aphrodite had some confusing bits, but probably after reading carefully they will clear up and yes, Hermes probably was the most outrageous (for his deeds)and adventurous.  They are all worth taking a second read, or more, as we start to tie all the various readings together to get a fuller picture.

posted by Miz Bones

Some study questions for the Homeric Hyms

Some of the Hymns are mere fragments; these questions because they are generic to a degree could be applied to almost any poetic text we read here. But, this is my first shot at reading these, much less 'teaching' them, so I'll start with some basics: 

Are these poems narrative driven, or are they panegyric, or both? 

What work might thee particular poems be performing, if we assume that they are not merely aesthetic objects created for enjoyment? 

What relationships between the gods, goddesses and other beings seem to come to light in these texts? 

Do these poems seem to be self-contained, or are they inter-textual (i.e. do they seem to be speaking to each other?)  

Your questions (and answers) are of course solicited.