Nyktomachies in Graeco-Roman epic

Abstract

Nyktomachies (derived from the Greek νυκτομαχεῖν) are a rare but very complex and influential structure of ancient epic which describes military engagements at night that begin after nightfall and end at sunrise. This bauform is not only a stock element of ancient epic, but it also plays an important role in other genres such as historiography and tragedy. In particular, the urbs capta motif and comparable scenes of nocturnal destruction that have their origin in the iconography of the Iliupersis are so pervasive in classical literature that they have also become a popular subject of parodic adaptations. This joint contribution traces the development of the bauform ‘nyktomachy’ in the epic tradition from its prototype, the Homeric Doloneia, to Triphiodorus’ Sack of Troy. The main focus of the analysis is to establish a common framework and to identify the typical characteristics of an epic nyktomachy scene in its different variations from nocturnal scouting expeditions and ambushes on one or more individuals to night raids on camps and entire cities. The diachronic study aims to establish the most important structural elements and narrative patterns for the individual epics under discussion as well as its main intra- and intertextual models. In addition to literary motifs that are recurring or exclusive to the context of a nocturna pugna, the role of the narrator, the author’s treatment of this rare and morally ambivalent military strategy, and the impact on its participants shall receive special attention.

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