Explain the three constructions of indirect speech (oratio obiqua) in Attic Greek.

  1. With verbs of saying such as "λεγω": ὁτι with the indicative mood and retaining the tense of the original direct speech. e.g. λεγω ὁτι Ἀχιλλευς καλος ἐστι 

  2. With verbs of hoping and swearing such as "ἐλπιζω" but also "φημι": the infinitve with the subject of the oratio obliqua in the accusative if different from the subject of the main clause. e.g. φημι τον Ἀχιλλεα καλον εἰναι

  3. With verbs of knowing and percieveing such as "ὁράω": as with 2. but with the participle. ὁράω τον Ἀχιλλεα καλον ὀντα

FW
Answered by Fergus W. Classical Greek tutor

2138 Views

See similar Classical Greek GCSE tutors

Related Classical Greek GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the grammatical aspect in Greek for?


How do I begin to tackle Greek epic?


What does 'οὔτοι συνέχθειν, ἀλλὰ συμφιλεῖν ἔφυν' mean?


Guide for translation


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning