Summary of the Book
The Trojan War has ended, but the Greek hero Odysseus has not yet returned to his kingdom, Ithaca. The absence of the great warrior has emboldened his old enemies. They gather at the palace, trying to convince Odysseus’ wife to forget him and choose one of them as her new husband. Penelope, though, remains loyal to Odysseus, firm in her belief that he will return. Her son Telemachus hates the intruders, but he is too innocent to handle them. Meanwhile, the men who have gathered to woo Penelope decide on more serious measures. On the other hand, Odysseus is still alive. He has been imprisoned by a nymph who loves him, and Athena, the Goddess of War, decides to help Odysseus. The nymph lets him go, but Odysseus’ troubles are not over as he has to face the wrath of Poseidon. The God of the Sea hates Odysseus for having blinded his son. Will Odysseus cross all the hurdles and claim the throne of Ithaca again?
About Homer
Homer is regarded as the greatest of Greek poets. His other great creation is The Iliad. His works are based on Greek legends, recounting the exploits of Greek Heroes and the Gods and Goddesses of Greek mythology. Homer’s life and history are mostly shrouded in mystery. There are numerous legends about him, one of them claiming he is the son of Telemachus, who was the son of Odysseus. But it is generally believed that Homer lived in the 7th or 8th century B.C. His works had a great impact on Greek culture and literature, and he is often referred to as the teacher of Greece.
