Imaginary Systems : Simone Weil and the Iliad

Publication Type

Book Chapter

Year of Publication

2003

Author

Simonsuuri, Kirsti K.

Editor

Haagsma, Margriet Boer, Pim den Moormann, Eric M.

Book

The Impact of Classical Greece on European and National Identities : Proceedings of an International Colloquium, held at the Netherlands Institute at Athens, 2-4 October 2000

Pages

267-277

Publisher

Gieben

Place Published

Amsterdam

Language

English

Keywords

force
Iliad
war

Annotation

Simonsuuri begins this article with a discussion of context in relation to the interpretation of ancient texts and how such interpretations are viewed and discussed in contemporary scholarship. She then turns to Weil’s interpretation of the Iliad, tracing the history of its writing and publication, discussing the major themes within it and connecting these to the understanding and use of ancient texts, particularly the Iliad at the time of Weil’s writing. Simonsuuri is especially concerned in her analysis with the role of myth and symbol in the cultural imaginary, a concern underlying her treatment of Weil’s work.