Books by Homer

After the brutal war with the Trojans and the mourning of the death of Achilles, the heroic king Ulysses sets course for home but in the process insults the god Poseidon. The angry god causes Ulysses and his crew to wander the sea for years as they get tempted by banished gods, fight off mighty monsters and even descend to the gates of the Greek hell, Tartarus, to rescue a wayward crew member. Meanwhile those in Ulysses kingdom try to court his forlorn wife who eagerly await her husband's return.

One of the greatest poetic epics ever written, the tale of the Iliad tells the tale of the great war of the Greeks against the Trojans to recover a runaway bride of a great greek king. The main hero, Achilles, goes along for the glory and servitude of the war and ends up showing just how human this supposedly immortal hero can be.

The great hero Odysseus has been away from his family for twenty years when the goddess Athene decides to help him find his way back to the island of Ithaca. But the journey will not be easy. Odysseus must face storms, monsters and the terrible anger of the sea god Poseidon. And if he succeeds, will he be welcomed home?

Book III is one of the most diverse in the Iliad. This edition discusses the historical, literary and religious backgrounds to the work and gives a full historical account of Homeric language. The commentary explores the styles of Homeric narrative as well as providing linguistic and metrical help.

Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. This edition provides an introduction, text and commentary suitable for intermediate and advanced students of Greek. It includes grammatical and other aid to translation but lays particular emphasis on interpretation and elucidation.

The Odyssey reveals a universal order where gods intercede in the destinies of men, heroes are both deceitful and brave and a sea voyage becomes a test of human ingenuity and endurance. Following the fall of Troy, Odysseus sets sail for home.

The Odyssey is the original journey tale, a genre that has lasted three thousand years and had a lasting influence on both literature and art. This masterpiece keeps its appeal not only because it reflects a glorious time of heroes and wonders, but because it is a work that speaks to the lives we live today.

"This is a translation of the epic Greek poem by Homer."--Provided by publisher.