La terra e il sangue (secondo Quinto Smirneo)

This article examines Quintus Smyrnaeus’ variations on the motif of the earth soaked in blood in battle scenes. Homer expresses this motif in a series of formulas and expressions, whereas Quintus uses the same traditional vocabulary to create numerous variations. This paper analyses the difference between oral and written composition by taking some passages of the Posthomerica and the Homeric poems as examples. The motifs examined are earth soaked in blood, water and earth obstructed by bodies. This analysis shows that starting from Homeric formulas and expressions Quintus creates new images, thus showing originality in composing his poem. This article also analyses Quintus’ re-elaboration non only of epic but also of tragedy, which becomes clear in the prophetic dream of Hecuba (QS 14.278 s.), where the combination of the motif of a nursing mother and that of blood flowing creates a new and powerful image.