Abstract

Catalogues and ringcompositions are common motifs in early Greek epic poetry. In certain cases catalogues are enclosed by ringcompositions or ring-like structures. While the catalogues in “Iliad” and “Odyssey” have been well examined, the different catalogues found in Hesiod’s poems have received less attention. This article provides an analysis of the use of ringcompositions in several catalogues in the “Theogony”. It shows that structure and function of ringcomposition depend on the character of the catalogue: the less digressive and extensive the catalogue, the more complex and elaborate the circle. It is further argued that this interdependence between catalogues and ringcompositions is related to the performance of oral poetry.