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The Iliad

By Homer
3.93 goodreads logo

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( 498,990 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 that recounts a critical period during the Trojan War, focusing on the hero Achilles. The narrative explores themes of honour, wrath, and fate as it depicts the intense battles and personal conflicts among Greek and Trojan warriors.
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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 book may appeal to you if you enjoy epic tales of heroism, intense battles, and intricate depictions of ancient Greek mythology and culture. The poetic narrative brings to life the legendary conflict between Greeks and Trojans, highlighting themes of honour, fate, and the human condition.

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Centres on the critical events in the last year of the Trojan War, which lead to Achilleus' killing of Hektor and determine the fate of Troy. This book presents a universal and tragic view of the world, of human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death, set against a vast and largely unpitying divine background.

With compassion and humanity, he presents a universal and tragic view of the world, of human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death, set against a vast and largely unpitying divine background.

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 Iliad, authored by Homer, stands as the greatest literary achievement of Greek civilisation and is now available in a stunning new clothbound edition.

The Iliad 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.

However, Homer's narrative transcends the mere depiction of war and heroism. With profound compassion and acute insight, The Iliad 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. It offers a timeless and tragic perspective on the human condition, unfolding under the inevitable shadow of suffering and death.

Set against the vast backdrop of a war-torn world orchestrated by capricious deities, Homer's masterful storytelling in The Iliad establishes it as an unparalleled epic in world literature and a cornerstone of Western culture. 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.

Series: Penguin Clothbound Classics

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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?

Homer's The Iliad, as translated by Fitzgerald, is praised for its seamless narrative, clear dialogue, and dynamic military depictions. The translation captures Homer’s vivid language and renews his timeless appeal. Critics commend Fitzgerald’s ability to balance the overarching artistry and intricate details of the original text.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141394657

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 06 November 2014

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
  • Notes by Peter Jones

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 36.0mm

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 206.0mm

Weight: 674g

Pages: 560

About the Author

Seven Greek cities claim the honour of being the birthplace of Homer (c. 8th-7th century BC), the poet to whom the composition of the Iliad and Odyssey are attributed. The Iliad is the oldest surviving work of Western literature, but the identity - or even the existence - of Homer himself is a complete mystery, with no reliable biographical information having survived. E. V. Rieu initiated Penguin Classics with Allen Lane and his famous translation of the Odyssey was the first book published in the series in 1947. The Iliad followed in 1950.

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