History
Homer: The Father of Western Literature
An introduction to Homer, the mysterious poet of ancient Greece credited with the epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey.
What is it?
Homer is the name traditionally given to the author of the ancient Greek epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey. While his actual existence is debated by scholars, he is considered one of the most influential literary figures in history. Believed to have lived around the 8th century BCE in Ionia (modern-day Turkey), tradition often depicts him as a blind poet who composed his works orally. The Iliad tells the story of the final year of the Trojan War, focusing on the warrior Achilles, while the Odyssey recounts the ten-year journey home of the hero Odysseus.
Why is it trending?
The figure of Homer and his works remain perpetually relevant. His epics are foundational texts of Western literature, providing a basis for Greek education and culture that has extended through the Roman Empire to the present day. The "Homeric Question"—whether he was a single person or a collective of storytellers—continues to fuel academic and literary debate. His stories, rich with themes of heroism, war, fate, and homecoming, are constantly being reinterpreted in modern literature, film, and art, ensuring their enduring presence in popular culture.
How does it affect people?
Homer's influence on modern society is immense. His epics established storytelling techniques and character archetypes that are still used today. Concepts like the "Trojan Horse" and "Achilles' heel" have become common phrases. For centuries, these poems were central to education, shaping Western ideals of heroism, morality, and virtue. The universal human experiences explored in the Iliad and the Odyssey—such as the struggles of war, the desire to return home, and the complexities of the human condition—continue to resonate with audiences, offering timeless insights into our own lives.