No More Learning

Accordingly, in the battles previous to the eighth book, no allusion
occurs to a rampart; in all those which follow it forms a prominent
feature. Here, then, in the anomaly as in the propriety of the
Iliad, the destiny of Achilles, or rather this peculiar crisis of
it, forms the pervading bond of connexion to the whole poem. "--Mure,
vol. i. , p. 257.

187 --_What cause of fear,_ &c.

"Seest thou not this? Or do we fear in vain
Thy boasted thunders, and thy thoughtless reign? "

Dryden's Virgil, iv. 304.

188 --_In exchange. _ These lines are referred to by Theophilus, the Roman
lawyer, iii. tit. xxiii.
Section 1, as exhibiting the most ancient
mention of barter.

189 "A similar bond of connexion, in the military details of the
narrative, is the decree issued by Jupiter, at the commencement of
the eighth book, against any further interference of the gods in the
battles. In the opening of the twentieth book this interdict is
withdrawn. During the twelve intermediate books it is kept steadily
in view. No interposition takes place but on the part of the
specially authorised agents of Jove, or on that of one or two
contumacious deities, described as boldly setting his commands at
defiance, but checked and reprimanded for their disobedience; while
the other divine warriors, who in the previous and subsequent cantos
are so active in support of their favourite heroes, repeatedly
allude to the supreme edict as the cause of their present
inactivity. "--Mure, vol. i. p 257. See however, Muller, "Greek
Literature," ch. v. Section 6, and Grote, vol. ii. p. 252.

190 "As far removed from God and light of heaven,
As from the centre thrice to th' utmost pole. "

--"Paradise Lost.