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Homer’s Iliad endures as an iconic text of the epic literary tradition and is exceedingly relevant today as it poses deep philosophical questions and seeks answers through its indelible characters: Achilles, Hector, Priam, and others. This comprehensive reading of the epic poem provides book-by-book commentary excavated through years of reading the epic in its original and in translation. The author has consulted a wide variety of resources to arrive at this personal reading and analysis of the work. Myrsiades begins with a background and summary of the poet and the poem before diving into an exhaustive exploration of each book in the epic. The result is a blend of patient retelling and resourceful scholarship.
This is an essential resource for uncovering the mysteries and illuminating the wonder of the Iliad. Myrsiades is an expert who explains the story of the Trojan War and the wrath of Achilles in all their glory and strife. He also incorporates the cultural and religious traditions that impact the lives of the characters and influence the progress of the war. Within the poem, “the divine mythology of the Olympian Gods” is evident and impactful. Myrsiades helps the reader understand the role of the gods and how they are used by the poet in the course of the war. Each book of the Iliad is layered with meaning and with universal themes about honor, fame, and facing death. Myrsiades lifts these layers and reveals a treasure of insightful commentary and deep understanding. Intricate and revelatory, this ancient tale is revived through the explanation of each part of the epic by a seasoned teacher, passionate researcher, and skillful writer.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review