Narrative and literary devices

Question 1

Epic sounding language

Answer 1

“the sun does not look down on any country which borders our own”

“setting fire to everything” - hyperbole (adds drama)

Question 2

Greek vs Barbarian

Answer 2

gives Greeks generalised statements at the end of their speeches to set them apart

Artabanus uses analogies - distinctive “gold cannot be tested for purity by itself”

Paradox of Xerxes asking for opinions and then not taking them

“it is not possible for either side to withdraw: we must either win or lose” (false dichotomy makes Xerxes look silly)

Question 3

Herodotus in the story

Answer 3

H places himself in the narrative a lot to provide his own views on things

“for Artemisia, at least” - humour from Herodotus

H cushions defeat of Persia with nice story about messenger system

Question 4

Flashbacks/flashforwards

Answer 4

flashback in 8.51 to Hellespont crossing

flashforward to Themistocles needing refuge in Persia

Question 5

Direct speech

Answer 5

Provides us with insights into Herodotus’ characters

Question 6

Xerxes

Answer 6

“Xerxes was not able to defeat them” - personification of Xerxes as if he is the only one present

“Xerxes the king” 3rd person: insane, full of himself

“I will not rest” - punchy literature for Xerxes

Question 7

Speeches

Answer 7

important people given speeches

Question 8

Feelings

Answer 8

“they were afraid”
-> H examines the feelings of his characters

X = angry @ UA but laughs at @ Mardonius and Artemisia