Samuel Butler 
The Humour of Homer and Other Essays 

In ‘The Humour of Homer and Other Essays’ by Samuel Butler, the author delves into the work of the ancient Greek poet Homer, exploring the comedic elements and humor embedded within his epic tales. Butler’s literary style is characterized by his witty and insightful analysis, offering readers a fresh perspective on classics such as The Iliad and The Odyssey. By dissecting the humor present in Homer’s works, Butler enhances our understanding of the literary context and cultural significance of these ancient texts. This collection of essays serves as a valuable resource for students and scholars alike, shedding light on the lighter side of legendary Greek literature. Samuel Butler’s background as a novelist and scholar of classical literature provides him with the expertise necessary to unravel the comedic nuances of Homer’s narratives. His keen observations and engaging writing style make ‘The Humour of Homer and Other Essays’ a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the lighter aspects of ancient Greek epics.

About the author

Samuel Butler (1835–1902) was a significant English author and critic, renowned for his satirical and probing literature, which often addressed the Victorian society’s assortment of inconsistencies and fallacies. Some of his most notable contributions to English literature include the utopian satire ‘Erewhon’ (1872) and a semi-autobiographical novel entitled ‘The Way of All Flesh’ (1903), which was published posthumously and is considered a cornerstone of the modern novel for its piercing examination of Victorian hypocrisy and family dynamics. ‘The Humour of Homer and Other Essays’ showcases Butler’s scholarship and wit in literary criticism, underscoring his skepticism towards orthodoxies and asserting the importance of humor and irreverence in scholarly pursuits. His literary style is characterized by incisive irony and a keen observational prowess. His essays often reflect his diverse interests, ranging from classical studies to evolutionary thought, which also feature prominently in his works. Butler’s idiosyncratic approach to both literature and life defied contemporary mores and anticipated 20th-century literary techniques, making him a pivotal albeit unconventional figure in the transition from Victorian to modern literary sensibilities.