Animali parlanti e giustizia in Plutarco ed Omero

Abstract

In his dialogue Bruta animalia ratione uti, Plutarch shows not only an incredible satirical vein, but also great knowledge of Homeric poems. The latter serve as a starting point for creating a surreal episode; moreover, they serve as a reference for the author, with literal quotes, to deepen the meaning of his speech. A wise use of the Homeric text allows Plutarch to place animals above men, from a physical, ethical and rational point of view. In veiled and ironical terms, Plutarch brings animals nearer the characteristics which the same deities are assigned. Like Gryllus in Plutarch, Xanthus in Homer imposes his role as mediator between the physical and metaphysical worlds. Achilles’ horse, whom Hera endows with speech, but who loses this ability because of the Erinyes, who are the ministers of Justice, expresses the “right” according to Homer’s categories, summarizing, in a few verses (Iliad 19.408-417), the structural order dominating the human condition.