The argument has been well summed up by Prof. R. Ellis:—‘For Apollonius the problem was how to write an epic which should be modelled on the Homeric epics, yet be so completely different as to suggest, not resemblance, but contrast. We think no one who has read even a hundred lines of the poem can fail to be struck by this. It is in fact the reason why it is a success. The Argonautica could not have been written without the Iliad and Odyssey, but it is in no sense an echo of either. Nay, we believe that a minute examination of Apollonius’ language and rhythm would show that he placed himself under the most rigid laws of intentional dissimilarity. Not that this is more than one element of his success. His genius is quite as real an element; and no one will deny this who has studied the successive phases of Medea’s passion in Book III. If, indeed, greatness could be tested by the extent of influence after death, the poem of Apollonius can rank only with the best works of Greek literature.’
FOOTNOTES
[[1]] To him is attributed the saying, ‘A great book is a great evil.’
[[2]] ‘The Bird of the Nile’ in satirical allusion to Apollonius’ birthplace being beside that river.
TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES
Alterations to the text:
[[Book I, l. 1263]] Change “In fury in flung to the earth the pine...” to he.
[Book IV] Add missing line numbers: 20 to “And there had the maiden beyond...”, and 1170 to “So soon as the dawn with her...”.
[[Book IV, l. 754]] Change “Tidings to her, whan she spied...” to when.
Note: minor spelling inconsistencies (e.g. Arês/Ares, Lêto/Leto, Tritônis/Tritonis, etc.) were left as-is.