Hippos of Troy: Why Homer Never Talked about a Horse

The book "The Hippos of Troy: Why Homer Never Talked About a Horse" challenges the traditional interpretation of the Wooden Horse of Troy and suggests that Homer actually referred to a merchant ship of Levantine origin,not a giant wooden horse.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2021
Publisher: Archaeopress

The Hippos of Troy: Unraveling the Mystery of Homer's Wooden Horse delves into one of the most iconic episodes in Classical mythology, the Wooden Horse of Troy. Through meticulous analysis of words, images, and archaeological evidence, the author presents a fresh perspective on Homer's intentions when he mentioned the "hippos" used by the Greeks to conquer Troy. The author's comprehensive examination of archaeological, iconographic, and philological sources leads to a startling conclusion: Homer never referred to a giant wooden horse or a war machine. Instead, he alluded to the employment of a specific ship type, a merchant ship of Levantine origin, which was in use during the Late Bronze Age/Early Iron Age Mediterranean. These ships were used not only for tribute to Levantine kings but also for trading precious metals along the Mediterranean coast.

The author's insights shed light on the historical context and cultural significance of the Wooden Horse of Troy, challenging traditional interpretations and revealing a more nuanced understanding of Homer's literary masterpiece. This captivating book offers a wealth of information and analysis, making it an essential read for anyone interested in ancient history, literature, and mythology.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 174 x 245 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789698992