Homer: The Iliad

This volume is a distinctive critical introduction to Homer’s Iliad, the earliest epic poem, and the earliest known work of literature in ancient Greece. Michael Silk deals with the poem’s historical context, its composition and its extensive influence, and relates its literary power to the peculiar coherence and inter-relation of such aspects of the poem as its style, character-portrayal and ideology. Through use of quotation from the original and accompanying English translation, close attention is paid to the distinctive texture of Homeric poetry. This revised edition takes account of recent scholarship in the field and includes a comprehensive updated guide to further reading. It is essential reading for students of literature and classics.

• New edition of a widely used and helpful guide to one of the greatest works of world literature - including a fully updated guide to further reading • This introduction examines the significant after-life of the Iliad • Written by an expert in the field who has taught this text for many years

Preface and note; 1. Homer’s world and the making of the Iliad; 2. The poem; 3. The Iliad and world literature; Guide to further reading.