Publications
Publication details [#14130]
Sels, Nadia . 2010. The function of irony in mythical narratives: Hans Blumenberg and Homer’s ludicrous gods. URL
Publication type
Other
Publication language
English
Abstract
The writer of this paper attempts to show that the seemingly paradoxical contradiction between the act of worshipping the ancient Gods of Olympus and the act of ‘ridiculing’ them in an ironic way is compatible and understandable for ancient Greeks. Based on the theories of Hans Blumenberg, the writer elaborates on several excerpts from the Homeric epics where Gods are presented ironically. The aim is to exemplify the fact that it was the human need to restrict and understand the threat of natural forces which led ancient Greeks to create myths and to employ irony, making Gods more human-like and, thus, producing laughter.