As Musas ensinam a mentir (Hesíodo, Teogonia, 27-28)

Abstract

This study deals with lines 27-28 from Hesiod’s Theogony and attempts to analyse the possibilities of interpretation of what the Muses declare to the poet by seeking to understand the status of the pseûdos that they claim as their realm of competence as goddesses. The excerpt is similar to Homer’s statements concerning both the Muses and the Mermaids, as well as a variant of Hesiod’s formula as applied to Ulysses (Odyssey 19.203). It can be concluded that the boundary separating truth from lie is already presented as a complex one, demanding sound judgement from the hearer/reader.