{"title":"The Odyssey \u0026 Trojan War Classics (and Retellings)","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2,2\"\u003eLong before Christopher Nolan turned it into a blockbuster in the summer of 2026, \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"2,2\" data-index-in-node=\"82\"\u003eThe Odyssey\u003c\/i\u003e was the original epic. After a massive opening weekend that blew past expectations, the film proved that humanity’s oldest war stories and sea voyages can still completely hook a modern audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2,3\"\u003ePeople leaving the theaters are becoming instant history buffs. Online book groups and social feeds are filling up with moviegoers who want to compare Nolan’s take with the original ancient texts and the actual archaeology behind Troy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2,4\"\u003eIf you walked out of the cinema looking for more, you are in good company. From classic translations of Virgil's \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"2,4\" data-index-in-node=\"113\"\u003eThe Aeneid\u003c\/i\u003e to deep dives into the collapse of the Bronze Age, here are the best books to read while the movie is still making waves.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"odyssey","title":"Odyssey","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe epic \u003cem\u003efinal\u003c\/em\u003e chapter to Stephen Fry's outstanding retellings of the Greek Myths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTroy has fallen. After 10 years of war, the Greeks make their way back to their own lands - but what homes now await them? Agamemnon must return to his wife Clytemnestra, who has been nursing her rage since he sacrificed their daughter to the gods for a favourable wind. 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At its heart is the kidnapping of Helen, a queen whose beauty is so enchanting that her abduction by Paris of Troy sets in motion one of the most epic conflicts in ancient history. This fateful event prompts the Greeks to launch a thousand ships, bringing together an army that will lay siege to the fortified city of Troy for a gruelling ten years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eStephen Fry masterfully weaves a tapestry of intrigue, heroism, and humanity as he retells the saga. The backdrop of the Trojan War is painted with the blood and sweat of both the mighty and the meek. From the god-like strength of Achilles to the cunning intellect of Odysseus, and from the steadfast resolution of Hector to the poignant struggles of the lesser-known soldiers, every character is given depth and personality that resonate with the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile battles are fought and lives are lost, the story does not shy away from the strained alliances, political manoeuvring, and personal vendettas that drive the narrative forward. Relationships are tested under the pressures of war, leading to moments of profound bravery and devastating betrayal. Fry's \u003cem\u003eTroy\u003c\/em\u003e delves deep into the passions that stir humanity: heroism clashing with hatred, love entwined with loss, and revenge shadowed by regret. These timeless themes, wrought with eloquent prose, bridge the gap between the ancient and the contemporary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eTroy\u003c\/em\u003e, expect to find not just a retelling of an old tale, but an exploration of the human condition. Engaging, immersive, and profoundly moving, Stephen Fry breathes new life into the epic battle that has captured imaginations for millennia. It is a story that reminds us why these myths endure, resonating with our own experiences of desire, despair, and the inexorable march of fate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mythology expert and celebrated author invites you to embark on a journey where gods walk among men, and where the fate of a city teeters on the brink. 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This dazzling companion volume to the bestselling \u003ci\u003eMythos\u003c\/i\u003e recounts the breath-taking exploits of some of the most legendary figures in Greek lore, showcasing the timeless tales of bravery, cunning, and adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Fry's masterful retelling, readers are invited to join Jason as he assembles his band of Argonauts to seek out the fabled Golden Fleece. Encounter Atalanta, a woman raised by bears, whose unparalleled speed could only be hindered by the ingenious trickery of golden apples. Follow the story of wily Oedipus as he solves the perplexing riddle of the Sphinx, and see the cunning hero Bellerophon capture the magnificent winged horse Pegasus to defeat the fearsome monster Chimera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eHeroes\u003c\/i\u003e delves into the essence of what it means to be a hero, showcasing both the extraordinary and the all-too-human aspects of these mythic characters. From their daunting trials and whimsical escapades to their moments of humour and tragedy, Fry's engaging narrative offers a profound and entertaining exploration of human potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe book captures the spirit of ancient Greece, filled with divine interventions, powerful symbolism, and timeless lessons. It is a testament to the enduring power of myth and its ability to shed light on the human condition. Fry's vibrant prose and insightful commentary make these age-old stories accessible and relevant for contemporary readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who revel in tales of adventure, cunning, and heroism, \u003ci\u003eHeroes\u003c\/i\u003e is a compelling and exhilarating read. Experience the extraordinarily epic journeys of Greek heroes who have inspired countless generations with their daring exploits and unforgettable stories of triumph and tragedy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eHeroes\u003c\/i\u003e reminds us that, whether in myth or reality, every person has the potential for greatness, capable of reaching their highest highs and enduring their lowest lows. Dive into Fry's luminous world where gods and monsters are only a page away, and discover the heroic possibilities within us all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45692047163628,"sku":"9781405940368","price":26.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781405940368_60a23315-c1df-4fc9-85b4-2bd461fab310.jpg?v=1781488636"},{"product_id":"the-aeneid","title":"The Aeneid","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Aeneid\u003c\/em\u003e by Virgil stands as a monumental work in the annals of literature, a timeless epic that has profoundly influenced Western culture for over two millennia. This exquisite clothbound edition offers a beautiful presentation of Virgil's magnum opus, which not only celebrated the glory of ancient Rome but also explored deep human emotions and experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe story follows the epic journey of Aeneas, a Trojan hero and son of Venus, as he flees the burning ruins of Troy to seek a new homeland. As prophesied, his voyage will eventually lead to the founding of Rome, but the path is fraught with trials. Aeneas and his companions face a tempestuous sea, encounters with mythical beings, and profound personal losses. Throughout his journey, Aeneas must navigate a complex landscape of divine interventions, political intrigues, and human rivalries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eVirgil's narrative deftly intertwines themes of duty, honour, and destiny with poignant moments of love and sorrow. The epic poem captures the essence of human struggle, the perseverance needed to overcome obstacles, and the ultimate fulfilment of one's fate. Aeneas's unwavering dedication to his mission stands as a testament to the virtues and values of ancient Rome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the works of Homer and later serving as a cornerstone for authors such as Dante and Milton, \u003cem\u003eThe Aeneid\u003c\/em\u003e is a seminal piece that has influenced a vast array of literary and artistic endeavours. Virgil's masterful use of language and poetic craftsmanship bring to life a story that is both grand in scope and rich in emotional depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you are revisiting this classic epic or discovering it for the first time, this beautifully crafted edition of \u003cem\u003eThe Aeneid\u003c\/em\u003e provides a profound and immersive reading experience. It is a must-have for any lover of literature and a vital piece for understanding the cultural and historical foundations of Western civilisation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45692366455020,"sku":"9780141996332","price":40.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141996332.jpg?v=1725559684"},{"product_id":"the-iliad","title":"The Iliad","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\nThe Iliad, authored by Homer, stands as the greatest literary achievement of Greek civilisation and is now available in a stunning new clothbound edition.\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Iliad\u003c\/em\u003e plunges readers into the throes of the legendary Trojan War. Set during the conflict's final year, this epic poem paints a vivid picture of bloodshed, glory, and the immortal struggles of heroes. The tale primarily follows the wrath of Achilleus, a demigod warrior driven by intense pride and fury, his conflicts with Agamemnon, the Greek commander, and the devastating consequences of their clash on the battlefield. Amidst these tensions, the narrative brings to life memorable characters such as the noble Hektor, Troy's greatest warrior, and the grieving widow Andromache. The heart of the story builds up to the poignant confrontation between Achilleus and Hektor, a duel that ultimately seals the fate of Troy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, Homer's narrative transcends the mere depiction of war and heroism. With profound compassion and acute insight, \u003cem\u003eThe Iliad\u003c\/em\u003e explores the very essence of human existence. The characters grapple with themes of honour, vengeance, mortality, and the whims of an indifferent pantheon of gods. 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This magnificent new edition, with its exquisite clothbound cover, is a must-have for both collectors and lovers of classic literature, ensuring that this ancient tale continues to inspire and captivate generations of readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45692419309804,"sku":"9780141394657","price":43.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141394657.jpg?v=1725562349"},{"product_id":"the-odyssey","title":"The Odyssey","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Odyssey\u003c\/i\u003e by Homer is a monumental epic that has enthralled readers for centuries with its rich tapestry of adventure and human struggle. It chronicles the perilous journey of Odysseus, the cunning King of Ithaca, as he strives to return home after the fall of Troy. During this ten-year odyssey, Odysseus confronts myriad dangers, both natural and supernatural, that test his bravery, wisdom, and resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout his voyage, Odysseus faces formidable challenges: deadly shipwrecks, fierce battles, and encounters with legendary monsters. These trials are compounded by the relentless wrath of Poseidon, the god of the sea, who seeks to thwart Odysseus' return at every turn. Each episode in Odysseus's journey is a captivating blend of ingenuity, heroism, and the struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOdysseus must draw upon all his cunning and resourcefulness to navigate these perils, aiming to reunite with his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus. 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Scorned and rejected, she grows up in the shadows, belonging to neither the world of gods nor mortals. As Circe discovers her darker powers—practising witchcraft, casting potent spells, brewing magical potions, and taming wild beasts—her talents threaten the deities, leading to her banishment on the remote island of Aiaia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOn Aiaia, Circe hones her mystical abilities and embraces her solitude, yet a woman who stands alone is inevitably a magnet for both friend and foe. Unexpectedly, her island becomes a sanctuary for various mythical beings and mortals, including the cunning hero Odysseus, for whom Circe dares to risk everything. 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