The Iliad

Discover the timeless classic, Homer's The Iliad, a cornerstone of Western literature that continues to resonate through the ages. This Penguin Classics edition, translated by the renowned Martin Hammond, beautifully captures the essence of an ancient Greek epic that explores the devastating impact of war on humanity. Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, The Iliad narrates the heroic but tragic story of Achilles, Agamemnon, and Hector within four critical days that forever change the fate of Troy. Delve into the profound themes of honor, suffering, and the complexities of human existence as you navigate through this gripping narrative filled with immense emotional depth.

Each page invites reflection on the moral dilemmas faced by warriors and the divine forces that shape their destinies. Martin Hammond's stellar translation is accompanied by an insightful introduction and a comprehensive index, making this edition essential for both new readers and aficionados of classical literature. Whether you are searching for an engaging read or looking to deepen your understanding of ancient Greek storytelling, The Iliad is an indispensable addition to any literary collection.

Order your copy today and enjoy free shipping on this extraordinary tribute to the legacy of Homer. Add The Iliad to your reading list and immerse yourself in a world where honor battles the horrors of war in this epic saga that has captivated hearts for centuries.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780140444445
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 1987
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 528


Description:
An ancient Greek epic which underpins the whole of western literature, Homer's The Iliad is a timeless evocation of the struggle to retain a sense of honour and virtue amidst the horrors of war. This Penguin Classics edition is translated with an introduction by Martin Hammond.
The Iliad is the greatest literary achievement of Greek civilization. The story centres on the critical events in four days of the tenth and final year of the war between the Greeks and the Trojans. It describes how the quarrel of Agamemnon and Achilleus sets in motion a tragic sequence of events, which leads to Achilleus' killing of Hektor and determines the ultimate fate of Troy. But Homer's theme is not simply war or heroism. With compassion and humanity he presents a universal and tragic view of the world, of human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death, set against a vast and largely unpitying divine background. The Iliad is the first of the world's great tragedies.
Martin Hammond's acclaimed translation is accompanied by a full introduction and a comprehensive index.
Seven Greek cities claim the honour of being the birthplace of Homer (c. 8th-7th century BC), the poet to whom the composition of the Iliad and Odyssey are attributed. The Iliad is the oldest surviving work of Western literature, but the identity - or even the existence - of Homer himself is a complete mystery, with no reliable biographical information having survived.
If you enjoyed the Iliad, you might like Homer's Odyssey, also available in Penguin Classics.
'Martin Hammond's modern prose version is the best and most accurate there has ever been'
Peter Levi, Independent
'A fine Iliad for our times'
Philip Howard, The Times


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