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Odyssey
Homer
The epic tale of Odysseus's ten-year journey home from Troy, featuring encounters with gods, monsters, and mortals. Essential source for Greek mythology and religious practices.
Notable Academic Translations
Richmond Lattimore (1965)Robert Fagles (1996)Emily Wilson (2017)
Recommended Reading Order
Emily Wilson's 2018 translation is the standout starting point for first-time readers, prized for its clarity and pace; Robert Fagles's 1996 verse translation is the classic alternative.
Canonical Figures in this Text
Key heroes and divinities who feature prominently across the chapters of this work
Heroes & Mortals
Key Dramatic Scenes
Pivotal passages and mythological turning points recorded in this canon
- I
The Cyclops' Cave
(Book 9)Odysseus blinds the Cyclops Polyphemus and escapes by hiding his men under sheep.
- II
The Descent to the Underworld
(Book 11)Odysseus consults the dead, including the prophet Tiresias and the shades of Achilles and Agamemnon.
- III
Circe and the Sirens
(Books 10 and 12)Circe turns his men to pigs before aiding him, and he later has himself bound to the mast to hear the Sirens safely.
- IV
The Stringing of the Bow
(Book 21)Penelope sets a contest with Odysseus's own bow that none of the suitors can even bend.
- V
The Slaughter of the Suitors
(Book 22)Odysseus reveals himself and kills the suitors who have besieged his household.
Source Passages and Editorial Notes
Direct quotations are distinguished from editorial paraphrases and records awaiting verification.
Ref: 11.488-491
Editorial paraphraseSpeak not smoothly of death to me, noble Odysseus! I would rather be a hired day-laborer bound to some landless, impoverished man on earth who has no great livelihood, than rule over all the dead who have perished.
Translator: A. T. Murray (wording adapted; Fagles not verified)A. T. Murray wording adapted; Fagles not checked
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