Meaning: This quote by Robert Fitzgerald is a reflection on the nature of Homer's language and the oral tradition in which his epic works were originally composed and transmitted. The quote highlights the idea that Homer's language was not a written language but rather a spoken one, existing solely in oral form. Fitzgerald suggests that Homer's language was not "seen" but rather "breathed," emphasizing the oral and auditory nature of his work. Fitzgerald also implies that the tradition of reciting and passing down Homer's epics was an essential part of the culture in which they originated.

Homer, the legendary ancient Greek poet, is traditionally credited with composing two of the greatest epic poems of ancient Greece: the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey." These works are foundational texts in Western literature and have had a significant influence on subsequent storytelling and literary traditions. However, it is important to note that these poems were initially part of an oral tradition and were not recorded in written form until later.

The idea that Homer's language was primarily an oral one is significant because it sheds light on the cultural and historical context in which his works were created. In ancient Greece, storytelling and poetry were often performed and transmitted orally, with bards and poets reciting their works to audiences. This oral tradition was a crucial aspect of the culture, and it shaped the way in which literature and knowledge were disseminated.

Fitzgerald's quote also draws attention to the immersive and living quality of Homer's language. By describing it as the language in which Homer lived and breathed, Fitzgerald emphasizes the intimate connection between the poet and his oral tradition. This language was not simply a medium for communication but a fundamental part of Homer's existence, permeating his entire being.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that the language of Homer's epics was not constrained by written characters on a page but rather existed in the spoken word. This understanding challenges the conventional notion of language as a written form of communication and emphasizes the power of oral storytelling and recitation.

The oral tradition of Homer's epics also raises questions about the transmission and preservation of these works. Without a written record, the accuracy and consistency of the poems could have been subject to variations and interpretations by different reciters. This aspect of the oral tradition adds an element of fluidity and adaptability to the texts, as they were shaped and reshaped by each storyteller who recited them.

In conclusion, Robert Fitzgerald's quote provides valuable insight into the nature of Homer's language and the oral tradition in which his epic poems were rooted. It underscores the oral and immersive quality of Homer's language, emphasizing its integral role in the poet's life and the culture in which his works were created. Understanding the oral tradition of Homer's epics enriches our appreciation of these timeless literary masterpieces and highlights the dynamic and multifaceted nature of language and storytelling in ancient Greece.