Homer

Homer is an ancient Greek poet traditionally linked to the Iliad and the Odyssey, two central works of ancient Greek literature. His name sits at the start of a long conversation about authorship, since the identity of Homer and the single authorship of these poems have both been debated for centuries.

What is known through the tradition is a body of writing that leans toward epic scale, heroic action, travel, and elevated poetic language. Alongside the Iliad and the Odyssey, the data also attach Homeric Hymns, Margites, Hymn to Demeter I, and Epigrams to his name, though not all of these texts are necessarily by him in the strict sense. If you are curious about foundational ancient storytelling, Homer is a good place to begin.

Start with the Iliad if you want war, tension, and a tightly built epic; choose the Odyssey if you want a more wandering, adventure-driven read. If you are interested in the hymn tradition and a more lyrical side of the material, try Homeric Hymns or Hymn to Demeter I. For something shorter and more approachable, Epigrams or Margites can offer a quicker entry into the tradition associated with Homer.