The Iliad

By Homer
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( 498,984 ratings, 15,684 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Iliad by Homer is an epic poem set during the final weeks of the Trojan War, focusing on the fierce conflict between the Greek hero Achilles and the Trojan forces, led by Hector. It explores themes of honour, wrath, and the capricious nature of the gods, all while providing a gripping narrative of warriors and their fates in a tumultuous ancient world. The story is richly woven with human emotions and the complexities of ancient Greek culture.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This epic poem may appeal to you if you are drawn to stories of legendary battles, complex relationships between gods and mortals, and the heroic exploits of ancient Greek warriors. With its exploration of themes like honour, wrath, and fate, it offers a captivating glimpse into classical mythology and culture.

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The Iliad

One of the epics in Western literature, "The Iliad" recounts the story of the Trojan wars. In his introduction, the author observes that although the violence of the Iliad is grim and relentless, it co-exists with both images of civilized life and a poignant yearning for peace.

Robert Fagles was awarded the PEN/Ralph Manheim Medal for Translation and a 1996 Academy Award in Literature from the American Academy of Art and Letters.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

One of the greatest epics in Western literature, The Iliad recounts the story of the Trojan wars. This timeless poem still vividly conveys the horror and heroism of men and gods battling amidst devastation and destruction, as it moves to its tragic conclusion.

In his introduction, Bernard Knox observes that although the violence of The Iliad is grim and relentless, it co-exists with both images of civilized life and a poignant yearning for peace.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Fitzgerald's translation of The Iliad is highly praised for its resolution of translation challenges, making the narrative fluid and the dialogue engaging. Reviewers commend his ability to render the military action distinctly and transform repetitive epithets into meaningful text. This rendering of Homer's work is celebrated for its vibrant rhythms, vivid imagery, and exceptional English, appealing to contemporary readers and potentially future audiences for its timelessness. Additionally, it captures both the overarching greatness of Homeric art and the intricate beauty of its verses.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140275360

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 April 1999

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Translated by Robert Fagles
  • Introduction by Bernard Knox
  • Notes by Bernard Knox

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 46.0mm

Width: 146.0mm

Height: 213.0mm

Weight: 752g

Pages: 704

About the Author

Homer (8th century BC), Greek epic poet to whom are attributed both the Iliad and the Odyssey. Robert Fagles was awarded the PEN/Ralph Manheim Medal for Translation and a 1996 Academy Award in Literature from the American Academy of Art and Letters. Bernard Knox is a renowned classicist.

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