Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 hours ago
Discussion about a range of characters from the readings. Beginning with Phaedra, conversation turned to her prominence and her stylized treatment. Members also explored the notion of agōn associated with the character, and her inner turmoil represented by the two characters of Artemis and Aphrodite. Participants then turned to the relationship between Achilles and Pentheus while considering larger questions of dying gods, a theme prevalent even in the Hellenistic age. Observations about parallels between Dionysus' recognition and Achilles' character were drawn, as well as the importance of Patroklos as a stand-in for Achilles. Other themes included the social significance of the cutting of Achilles' hair, and his (temporary) alienation from his people.
Recorded in Fall 2021 during v16 of the MOOC, The Ancient Greek Hero in 24 Hours, focusing on Hours 20 and 21, and responses to the Discussion Questions.
With Gregory Nagy, Keith DeStone, and members of the HeroesX Team.
Discussion about a range of characters from the readings. Beginning with Phaedra, conversation turned to her prominence and her stylized treatment. Members also explored the notion of agōn associated with the character, and her inner turmoil represented by the two characters of Artemis and Aphrodite. Participants then turned to the relationship between Achilles and Pentheus while considering larger questions of dying gods, a theme prevalent even in the Hellenistic age. Observations about parallels between Dionysus' recognition and Achilles' character were drawn, as well as the importance of Patroklos as a stand-in for Achilles. Other themes included the social significance of the cutting of Achilles' hair, and his (temporary) alienation from his people.
Recorded in Fall 2021 during v16 of the MOOC, The Ancient Greek Hero in 24 Hours, focusing on Hours 20 and 21, and responses to the Discussion Questions.
With Gregory Nagy, Keith DeStone, and members of the HeroesX Team.
