Homer: A Very Short Introduction

Homer’s mythological tales of war and homecoming, the Iliad and the Odyssey, are widely considered to be two of the most influential works in the history of world literature. Yet their author, ‘the greatest poet that ever lived’, is something of a mystery. Homer: A Very Short Introduction considers Homer’s famous works, their composition, and their impact on readers throughout the centuries. It also shows how scholars’ notes on ancient manuscripts still influence our interpretation of Homer’s work today. Homer’s poems have inspired artists, writers, philosophers, musicians, playwrights, and film-makers. Exploring the main literary, historical, cultural, and archaeological issues at the heart of Homer’s narratives, this VSI analyses the enduring appeal of Homer and his iconic works.