The World of the Odyssey

THE WORLD AROUND THE ODYSSEY

The World of the Odyssey explores the world surrounding Homer’s poem. Its pages form a varied mosaic of articles dealing with literary, historical, linguistic and mythological questions. Some examine complex subjects in depth; others explore simpler topics, lesser-known characters or curiosities.

It is intended for anyone interested in Homer and the ancient world, from those discovering them for the first time to readers wishing to deepen their knowledge.

Reading can begin anywhere: there is no fixed beginning or end, and no prescribed order. For those who prefer a starting point, however, we recommend The Trojan War: the Story and Its Sources, which helps readers understand the world from which Odysseus returns.

Cover of Homer’s Odyssey: A World to Explore, showing Odysseus’ ship and the Sirens

Back cover of Homer’s Odyssey, showing Penelope and Odysseus facing one another across a moonlit sea

Explore by topic

Troy: War, Peoples and TraditionsWar, peoples, stories and characters from the Trojan cycle.Geography and JourneyPlaces, navigation, maps and the limits of Homer’s world.The Odyssey from WithinTime, characters and narrative resources in the poem.Homer and His WorldPoet, language and the traditions that shape the Homeric poems.Sources and ProjectMethod, bibliography and reference tools for this site.SearchSearch the pages currently available in English.