Both Uses of
constraint
in
The Odyssey, by Homer (translated by: Butcher & Lang)
- 'On this wise he spake, but I answered him, saying: "Eurylochus, abide for thy part here in this place, eating and drinking by the black hollow ship: but I will go forth, for a strong constraint is laid on me."†
Book 10 *constraint = something that limits something else
- And Telemachus will testify of this, thine own dear son, that not by mine own will or desire did I resort to thy house to sing to the wooers at their feasts; but being so many and stronger than I they led me by constraint.'†
Book 22
Definitions:
-
(1)
(constraint) limitation (something that limits something else)
-
(2)
(meaning too rare to warrant focus) meaning too rare to warrant focus:
In classic literature, constraint is often used where constrained would be used today to indicate an inhibited attitude (lack of spontaneity).