Diachronic Narratology in Greek Myth

This Element explores Greek mythology through diachronic narratology, focusing on how stories evolve over time. Rather than seeking the 'truth' of myths, it highlights storytelling as central to myth itself. Featuring Odysseus, Herakles, and Helen, it shows how narrative shapes mythic meaning.Diachronic Narratology in Greek Myth looks at ancient Greek mythology from the viewpoint of its storytelling through time. There are hundreds of different figures and stories in Greek mythology, interconnected in a complex narrative network. While earlier research often sought to penetrate the core of the seemingly 'true' or 'original' myths, it is now better understood that the way the myths were conveyed constitutes their actual essence: how a story is told, and retold, cannot be separated from the story itself. Based on brief introductions to the basics of mythology and narratology, this Element offers a discussion of three paradigmatic characters from Greek mythology and their voyage through literary history: Odysseus, Herakles and Helen. It demonstrates how a narratological approach can enrich our perspective on, and understanding of, mythology.