The Odyssey

by Homer

Overview

The Odyssey is one of the two epic poems attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, the other being The Iliad. It is considered one of the greatest works of Western literature and is a cornerstone of ancient Greek mythology and storytelling.

Plot Overview:

The story follows the hero Odysseus, king of Ithaca, as he embarks on a long and perilous journey home after the Trojan War. The war lasts ten years, and it takes Odysseus another ten years to return to his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, in Ithaca. During his journey, Odysseus encounters a series of fantastical challenges and adventures, including encounters with mythical creatures such as the Cyclops Polyphemus, the enchantress Circe, the deadly sirens, and the terrifying Scylla and Charybdis.

Throughout his travels, Odysseus is tested by the gods, particularly Poseidon, who holds a grudge against him for blinding his son, Polyphemus. The gods, however, also offer him help—Athena in particular provides him with guidance and protection.

In addition to Odysseus's personal journey, the epic also explores themes of loyalty, cleverness, and the struggle to return home. Penelope's unwavering faithfulness and Telemachus's coming-of-age story, as he searches for his father, form another central thread in the narrative.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940184553092
Publisher:	Homer
Publication date:	04/07/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	503 KB

About the Author

Homer, the ancient Greek poet traditionally credited with composing The Odyssey and The Iliad, remains one of the most influential figures in Western literature. However, much about his life is shrouded in mystery, and scholars have debated his existence and authorship for centuries.

Historical Context:

Time Period: Homer is believed to have lived during the 8th century BCE, though the exact dates of his birth and death are uncertain. Some scholars suggest he lived between the 12th and 8th centuries BCE, which is the approximate timeframe for when the events of The Odyssey and The Iliad are thought to have occurred.

Location: Homer is often thought to have been from the region of Ionia, on the coast of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), although various cities claim to be his birthplace, including Smyrna (modern-day Izmir) and Chios.

Life and Legacy:

Little is known about Homer's life, and some scholars even question whether he was a single person or a title for a group of poets who contributed to the epic poems. The name "Homer" may have been a tradition used for a poet or group of poets who passed down oral traditions and stories.

Homer is said to have been blind, a detail mentioned in many ancient accounts, though this has also been debated.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding his life, Homer’s influence on literature is unparalleled. The Iliad and The Odyssey were central to the development of Greek culture, education, and myth, providing the foundation for much of Western storytelling.

The Homeric Epics:

The Iliad: This epic focuses on the events of the Trojan War, particularly the wrath of Achilles. It explores themes of honor, fate, and the consequences of war.

The Odyssey: This epic follows the adventures of Odysseus as he tries to return home from the Trojan War, encountering various mythological creatures and divine beings along the way. It touches on themes of perseverance, homecoming, and the complexities of human nature.

Editorial Reviews

The Times Literary Supplement: In an article about translations of classical epics, Butler's version is commended for its clear, straightforward prose. His approach is especially noted for making the epic more accessible to general readers. However, the review points out that, while Butler's translation may not capture the full range of Homer's poetic artistry, it still succeeds in telling the core narrative of The Odyssey with clarity.

The Times Literary Supplement: - N/A