Iliad

Product Description

An ancient Greek epic which underpins the whole of western literature Homers The Iliad" is a timeless evocation of the struggle to retain a sense of honour & virtue amidst the horrors of war. This " Penguin Classics" edition is translated with an introduction by Martin Hammond. " The Iliad" is the greatest literary achievement of Greek civilization. The story centres on the critical events in four days of the tenth & final year of the war between the Greeks & the Trojans. It describes how the quarrel of Agamemnon & Achilleus sets in motion a tragic sequence of events which leads to Achilleus killing of Hektor & determines the ultimate fate of Troy. But Homers theme is not simply war or heroism. With compassion & humanity he presents a universal & tragic view of the world of human life lived under the shadow of suffering & death set against a vast & largely unpitying divine background. " The Iliad" is the first of the worlds great tragedies. Martin Hammonds acclaimed translation is accompanied by a full introduction & a comprehensive index. 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 & 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. If you enjoyed the " Iliad" you might like Homers " Odyssey" also available in " Penguin Classics". " Martin Hammonds modern prose version is the best & most accurate there has ever been". (Peter Levi " Independent"). "A fine Iliad for our times". (Philip Howard " The Times")."