The Odyssey

The Odyssey tells of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, who tries to reach home after Troy falls. His voyage lasts ten more years, and he meets monsters, gods, and many dangers while his crew is lost. In Ithaca, his wife Penelope and son Telemachus face suitors who want her hand. The poem explores homecoming, wandering, hospitality, testing, and signs. It is one of the oldest surviving works of Greek literature and is divided into 24 books. Odysseus uses courage and cleverness to overcome obstacles on his long journey back.

Why You Should Read?

• Follow Odysseus on his difficult journey home after the Greek victory at Troy.
• Meet Penelope and Telemachus as they deal with suitors competing for her hand.
• Explore themes of homecoming, wandering, hospitality, testing, and omens throughout the epic.
• Experience the dangers Odysseus faces from monsters, gods, and a crew that goes astray.

About the Author

Homer was an ancient Greek poet, possibly born around the 8th century BC. People long named him as writer of the Iliad and the Odyssey. Ancient Greek society respected him greatly, and many view him among history's most important authors. His identity and existence are still argued. Scholars usually think different writers made the two poems. The poems used Homeric Greek, or Epic Greek, mixing Ionic and Aeolic dialect traits from several centuries, mostly Eastern Ionic. Most researchers think they first passed by mouth. They shaped ancient Greek culture and learning, supporting heroism, glory, and honor.