Who was the audience of Homer's epics?

Although Homer's epic poetry was composed for, and at the time of, oral performance (most likely to educate a largely non-literate population), I would see it necessary to address an audience that is the closest parallel to the protagonists of the tales, as they would benefit most from its morals. Consider, also, the length of an epic poem; it is far too long to be heard/read by an average citizen. It seems more likely that only a member of the upper or ruling class would be able to afford to spend the length of time necessary for recitation.

If you give credit to the speculation that Achilles's quest in the Iliad was written to be an 'anti-war' poem, think about to whom it would be best addressed. It would make sense to think the rulers - those responsible for the declaration of wars - were meant to be the listeners, as they would be in the position to be most influenced by it.

Further support for this hypothesis is in the introduction of Homer's Odyssey, in which the poet claims the poem is about "a man," an epic of the individual, hence applicable to all (wo)men who encounter it. The emphasis is solely on human will and the action of one person. This idea of individuality is contradicted, however, by the council of the gods immediately following the beginning and their consequent reference to the fallibility of humans who do not heed their advice. Furthermore, not only is his quest far removed from that of an average citizen, but Odysseus himself is referred to as being "godlike," thus removing all ties from the common person.