The Odyssey (Oxford World's Classics) - Homer

Homer’s The Odyssey stands as one of the greatest works of world literature—a profound tale of adventure, endurance, and the unbreakable human spirit. This celebrated Oxford World’s Classics edition presents a lucid and faithful prose translation that captures the beauty and complexity of the original epic.

The story follows Odysseus, the cunning hero of Troy, as he struggles to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. His decade-long voyage takes him through a series of legendary trials: from the seductive enchantress Circe and the terrifying Cyclops, to his descent into the Underworld and his fateful encounter with the Sirens. Meanwhile, in Ithaca, his faithful wife Penelope and son Telemachus face the greed and cruelty of the suitors who threaten their home.

This edition includes an insightful introduction, detailed notes, and a bibliography, making it ideal for both students and general readers seeking a deeper understanding of Homer’s timeless masterpiece.

Main Themes of the Book

• The power of resilience and human perseverance
• The longing for home and identity
• Heroism, cunning, and moral endurance
• Loyalty, faith, and family bonds
• The tension between fate and free will

Why You Should Read This Book by Homer

• A definitive Oxford World’s Classics edition with expert scholarly commentary.
• Captures the poetic majesty and human depth of Homer’s original epic.
• Offers helpful notes, introductions, and resources for study and reflection.
• Essential reading for lovers of classical literature and mythology.
• Perfect for students, educators, and anyone exploring the roots of Western storytelling.

The Odyssey remains as captivating today as it was thousands of years ago—a tale of courage, wit, and the enduring quest for home. This Oxford edition brings Homer’s immortal story to modern readers with clarity and elegance, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of world literature.