Lies, Lyres, and Laughter: Surplus Potential in the \u3ci\u3eHomeric Hymn to Hermes\u3c/i\u3e

This paper seeks to reevaluate scholarly responses to the laughter in the Homeric Hymn to Hermes. Using Zupančič\u27s recent work on comedy, I argue that Hermes intentionally exploits surplus potentials that emerge from splits in the perceived unity and completeness of Zeus\u27s cosmos. Through surpluses (a tortoise-lyre, a baby cattle rustler, a baby master of legal speech), Hermes is able to attain his place among the Olympians. The laughter of the audience is one final expression of this acceptance of Hermes and his potential

Reconsidering Zeus’ Order: The Reconciliation of Apollo and Hermes

This paper argues that the Homeric Hymn to Hermes explores competing ways of approaching the world through the figures of Hermes and Apollo. Apollo’s reliance on the established world, partially marked by the knowledge of εἰδέναι, is insufficient in understanding Hermes, who aligns himself with the flexible capacity of νόος. Whereas Apollo eliminates his rivals in order to establish himself permanently, Hermes exploits unexplored potentials in order to create space alongside the established gods in the Olympian order. Ultimately, the newly forged friendship of Apollo and Hermes helps us understand the nature of Zeus more fully

Lies, Lyres, and Laughter in the Homeric Hymn to Hermes

With its flatulent hero, the Homeric Hymn to Hermes has long been a source of trouble for scholars. While early 20th century scholars dismissed the hymn as having no serious purpose, Clay (1989), Harrell (1991), and Johnston (2002) have discussed the acquisition of timê or questions of cult practice as its purpose

To Script Or Not To Script: Rethinking Pseudolus as Playwright

Christopher Bungard\u27s contribution to Helios, 41(4)

A Blast from the Ancient Past: Using Digital Storytelling in ‘Roman Perspectives’

Christopher Bumgard\u27s contribution to the CAMWS Annual Meeting: Waco, Texas. 2014

Silent and Boisterous Slaves: Considerations in Staging Pseudolus 133-234

Christopher Bumgard\u27s contribution to the CAMWS Annual Meeting: Iowa City, Iowa. 2013