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The Iliad

By Homer
Penguin Classics
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3.93 goodreads logo

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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 that delves into the final weeks of the Trojan War, focusing on the fierce conflict between the Greek hero Achilles and King Agamemnon. The narrative explores themes of heroism, wrath, and the divine influence of gods, painting a vivid picture of ancient warfare and honour. Its rich storytelling offers insights into Greek culture and the timeless nature of human emotions.
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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?

You might enjoy this classic epic poem if you're fascinated by Greek mythology and tales of heroism, honour, and conflict. The narrative offers a deep dive into the legendary Trojan War, filled with legendary characters and gods, making it a rich experience for those interested in ancient cultures and timeless stories.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Tells the story of darkest episode in "Trojan War". At its centre is Achilles, greatest warrior-champion of Greeks, and his refusal to fight after being humiliated by his leader Agamemnon. But when Trojan Hector kills Achilles' close friend Patroclus, he storms back into battle to take revenge - even though he knows this may ensure his own death.

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
"The Illiad" is the culmination of a long-standing oral tradition. The oral technique enabled a master bard like Homer to develop what may historically have been an event of minor importance into a fully fledged epic. So, out of a single episode in the legendary Trojan War - Achilles' withdrawal from the fighting and his return to kill the Trojan hero, Hector - Homer generated the 24 books of "The Illiad". What the oral technique does not automatically provide, however, is the genius of the poem which is rendered here in E.V. Rieu's translation, which has been revised for this edition by his son, D.C.H. Rieu and Peter Jones. Homer has created a timeless, dramatic tragedy. His characters are heroic but their passions and problems are human and universal, and he presents them with compassion, understanding and humour against the harsh background of the war and the quarrels of the gods.

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?

The translation by Fitzgerald is praised for resolving the challenges traditionally faced by translators of The Iliad, offering a clear narrative and dialogue. Reviewers highlight its rhythmic flow, vivid imagery, and accessibility to contemporary readers while preserving the artistic depth of Homeric verse. This version is noted for making Homer's art resonate with modern audiences and showcasing the translator's strengths.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140447941

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 January 2003

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Edited by Peter Jones
  • Translated by E. V. Rieu
  • Translated by Peter Jones
  • Translated by D. C. H. Rieu
  • Introduction by Peter Jones
  • Translated by E. V. Rieu
  • Translated by D. C. H. Rieu
  • Introduction by Peter Jones

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 131.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 384g

Pages: 560

Collections

Ancient & Classical History Arts & Culture Best Sellers at Book Hero Best Selling Books Classic Fiction Classic Poetry Homer Homer In Stock Arts & Culture Books In Stock Books New Zealand's Best Selling Books Non-Fiction Penguin Books Penguin Classics Penguin Classics: Arts & Culture Penguin Classics: Poetry Poetry

About the Author

Homer is thought to have lived c.750-700 BC in Ionia and is believed to be the author of the earliest works of Western Literature: The Odyssey and The Iliad. E V Rieu was a celebrated translator from Latin and Greek, and editor of Penguin Classics from 1944-64. His son, D C H Rieu, has revised his work. Peter Jones is former lecturer in Classics at Newcastle. He co-founded the 'Friends of Classics' society and is the editor of their journal and a columnist for The Spectator.

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