Author: Mary E. Burt

Homer, the legendary ancient Greek poet, is traditionally credited as the author of the epic poems, the “Iliad” and the “Odyssey”. While the historical existence of Homer as a single individual is a matter of scholarly debate, his works have had a profound influence on Western literature and are considered cornerstones of the Greek literary canon. The “Odyssey”, attributed to Homer, tells the tale of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, and his perilous journey home after the fall of Troy. It is a narrative replete with themes of adventure, loyalty, and the cunning resilience of its hero. The adapted storybook titled “Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca”, simplifies the original epic for a broader audience, retaining the essence of Odysseus”s trials and triumphs. Homer”s epics are renowned not just for their thrilling plots but also for their exploration of human nature, the divine pantheon, and the ancient Greek concept of heroism. His literary style, exemplified by the use of dactylic hexameter and the employment of devices like epithets and repeated phrases, has been a subject of study and emulation for subsequent generations of poets and writers. Over time, Homer”s work has been translated into numerous languages and has inspired a vast array of literary and artistic creations. Despite the lack of concrete biographical details, Homer”s legacy endures, and he remains a seminal figure in the history of literature.