Observations on the Topography of the Plain of Troy, Shewing That the System of M. De Chevalier J.B. Le Chavalier in His Tableau De La Plaine De Troie Is Founded on Erroneous Topography

Observations On The Topography Of The Plain Of Troy, Shewing That The System Of M. De Chevalier J.B. Le Chavalier In His Tableau De La Plaine De Troie Is Founded On Erroneous Topography by James Rennell. This 1814 tract critically examines proposed topographies of the Trojan Plain. Rennell argues that M. de Chevalier’s Plain of Troy is built on erroneous geography and that Demetrius of Scepsis, Strabo, and later scholars provide a more accurate framework. Drawing on early authorities and modern travelogues, Rennell assesses the geography of Ida and the Trojan plains, identifying the Scamander with the Mender and the Simois with the Shimar, and locating Troy on the eastern side of the Mender rather than on Chevalier’s proposed western scheme. The work juxtaposes Homeric description with ancient and contemporary topographies, evaluates the hot and cold springs associated with the region, and discusses the placement of Troy’s monuments, camp, rampart, and tumuli. It also surveys the ancient sources on the site of Troy and the fields of battle, ultimately arguing for a revised site nearer New Ilium and the eastern Ida. The text includes prefatory acknowledgments, maps, and addenda that illuminate the debate.