Homer and Anatolian

This chapter discusses the possible Anatolian influence on the Homeric poems. It is divided into three parts. First, an explanation is given for choosing the topic of Homer and Anatolian. The second part focuses on the possible interference in the Homeric verbal morpho-syntax, analyzing the use of the modal particle and the indicative mood to mark non-realis (potentialis and irrealis) modality, the use of the suffix ‑σκ- to mark imperfectivity in past indicative verb forms, and, finally, the use of the genitive case in the absolute constructions. The third part discusses the possibility of an Anatolian influence on the phraseology and literary topoi. Through a critical assessment of the existing literature on the topics and a detailed analysis of selected passages and samples, the chapter establishes that the assumption of contact-induced influence from Anatolian into Homeric Greek cannot be substantiated in a conclusive fashion.