The Iliad of Homer
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The Iliad of Homer
by Authors:
Homer , Richmond Lattimore
Released: September, 1987
ISBN: 0226469409
Paperback
Sales Rank: 10,618
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| Book > The Iliad of Homer > Customer Reviews: |
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Average Customer Rating: 
The Iliad of Homer >
Customer Review #1:
 Enough criticism--what does it really mean?
I will not pretend to know much about the form and structure of this epic, for I am not an English major. However, this translation of the Iliad has put me on the path of rediscovering my interest in the humanities. The vivid yet blunt description has forced the reader into this world which revolves solely on glory and honor. The Iliad itself offers insight into the very questions that surround our existence:"Fate is the same for the man who holds back, the same if he fights hard. We are all held in a single honour, the brave with the weaklings. A man dies still if he has done nothing, as one who has done much." Iliad, 318-20
This is a segment from Achilleus statement in Book 9. I feel that this captures a very important question which hovers constantly on the edge of my mind: why are we here? What is our purpose if we are to all die eventually? Is it to capture glory and honor? If it is, does that mean this honor transcends onto our children? And even if it does, why is that important to us? Why do we strive for glory when it will be taken from us when we pass on? I do not study religion, so I will not pretend to be well versed in it--but these are issues which can be drawn from the Iliad, issues which have been explained in various ways by the worlds several mainstream religions which have been in existence for thousands of years. All of this and more is plainly exposed, in all of its simplicity. The reader only has to pick up the book and ask the questions. Answers? You will find none here. A deeper respect and curiousity for what it means to be human? You might find yourself asking more questions.
The Iliad of Homer >
Customer Review #2:
Apt reading for America today
Perhaps one of the first anti-war works of literature, the Iliad stands as relevant for our world today as it has been for the Greeks of 3000 years ago. Lattimore has given us with a brilliant translation that makes this masterpiece accessible in all its beauty to modern-day English speakers. The introduction provides the necessary understanding of the background and translation scheme, adding to the appreciation of the poem, but concise and short enough to permit the reader to delve into the beauty of the Iliad without much further ado. The Iliad of course is the most famous classic Greek poem. In reading this translation, one vividly moves into the world of the gods and heroes. Though seemingly long, the Iliad is breathtaking in its action and plot sequences. It is easy to get lost imagining the conflicts between Achilleus, Agamemnon, and Hector, or reflecting on the fascinating intrigues of Athena and Zeus. There are many lessons in these tales for everyone today, for we humans still behave within the same parameters of pride, glory, anger, vengeance, and love. After reading it, I was left reflecting about th meaning of victory, and how Achilleus was unsatisfied after obtaining his revenge. Read it, and you will instantly recognized why this epic poem has been deemed a masterpiece.
The Iliad of Homer >
Customer Review #3:
A return to the origins!
Its difficult not to give 5 stars to "The Iliad" of Homer. I must admit it was not an easy reading, mainly because Ive read a version in verse. However, it was a wonderful journey to the origins of the Western Civilization, its myths, heroes, wars and more. I always wanted to read it, but always postponed it for any reason. It took me two months to read it because its not like a fiction novel you could read today. Its history, its mythology, and among it the story about Achilles, Agamemnon, Athena, Apollo, etc. Wonderful book. Anyone whos interested in learning its roots should read it.
Now I look forward for "The Odyssey".
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The Iliad of Homer >
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