Homer lines 236-237 particularly stuck out to me because it highlights that the men specifically lose their memory of home before being turned into pigs. This indicates to me that an important distinction between animals and humans to the ancient world is their ability to have a memory. Later in the story this theme persists with the crew acting largely like animals by eating and drinking for a whole year because Odysseus forgets about his quest to return home. This part of the story is striking similar to how Aeneid is sidetracked on his quest by Queen Dido until he is reminded of his duty. I think this symbolizes the importance of how an individuals memory gives them an identity and purpose within their life that separates them from animals/others.
I think the focus of an individual is interesting because usually in these epic poems the major focus is on a cultural memory, and linking the story to real people and events. In the Iliad and the Aeneid there is significant time spent blending the fictional elements with the recording of seemingly real people and events. I believe these recordings are extremely important to give the work a sense of authenticity while making the culture of the area more tied together. Similar to an individuals memory, this cultural memory gives the nation a sense of identity and purpose that makes it unique.