Homer: A Very Short Introduction

Homer's Iliad and Odyssey are two of the most influential works in western literature, but their author is a mystery. Barbara Graziosi considers their impact on readers throughout the centuries and how they benefit from a tradition of reading that spans over two millennia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Homer's legendary tales of war and homecoming, the Iliad and the Odyssey, are widely regarded as two of the most influential works in the history of Western literature. However, the author of these masterpieces remains a mystery. By the 6th century BCE, Homer had already become a mythical figure, and the debate continues as to whether he ever existed. In this Very Short Introduction, Barbara Graziosi delves into the famous works of Homer and their profound impact on readers throughout the centuries. She explores how the Iliad and the Odyssey have benefited from a tradition of reading that spans over two millennia, originating from ancient scholars at the library of Alexandria in the third and second centuries BCE, who wrote some of the earliest commentaries on the Homeric epics. These scholars' notes, which were meticulously recorded in the margins of Byzantine manuscripts, traveled to Italy, and eventually found their way into the first printed editions of Homer. These annotations have had a lasting influence on our interpretation of Homer's work today. Throughout its journey, Homer's works have inspired artists, writers, philosophers, musicians, playwrights. Graziosi analyzes the enduring appeal of Homer and his iconic works, exploring the main literary, historical, cultural, and archaeological issues at the heart of Homer's narratives. By examining the rich tapestry of influences and interpretations that have shaped Homer's legacy, Graziosi sheds light on the timeless relevance of his iconic works and their profound impact on the world of literature and beyond.

Weight: 116g
Dimension: 113 x 174 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199589944