Which scholar argues that Aeneid 6 is permeated by Homeric derivation and allusion?

Which scholar argues that Aeneid 6 is permeated by Homeric derivation and allusion?

• A. Simon Swain - Book 6
• B. Simon Swain - Homeric influence
• C. Richard Rutherford - Homeric influence
• D. Richard Jenkyns - Aeneas' actions

Answer: (A)

The question tests recognition of a scholar who links Aeneid book 6 closely to Homeric echoes. Simon Swain is the one who argues that this particular book is permeated by Homeric derivation and allusion, focusing on how Virgil uses Homeric patterns and motifs within the underworld sequence to place Aeneas within the epic tradition. This precise link to book 6—rather than to Virgil's overall Homeric influence or to other aspects of Aeneas’ actions—is what makes Swain the best match for the claim in the prompt. The other names are associated with Homeric influence in Virgil more broadly or with different aspects (for example, general Homeric influence or emphasis on Aeneas’ actions), so they don’t fit the specific claim about book 6 in the same targeted way.

The question tests recognition of a scholar who links Aeneid book 6 closely to Homeric echoes. Simon Swain is the one who argues that this particular book is permeated by Homeric derivation and allusion, focusing on how Virgil uses Homeric patterns and motifs within the underworld sequence to place Aeneas within the epic tradition. This precise link to book 6—rather than to Virgil's overall Homeric influence or to other aspects of Aeneas’ actions—is what makes Swain the best match for the claim in the prompt. The other names are associated with Homeric influence in Virgil more broadly or with different aspects (for example, general Homeric influence or emphasis on Aeneas’ actions), so they don’t fit the specific claim about book 6 in the same targeted way.