Homer and Hesiod: The Foundations of Ancient Greek Literature: Iliad, Odyssey, Theogony, Works and Days

Gilbert Murray · Homer · Hesiod

Nov 2023 · DigiCat

About this ebook

The Iliad and the Odyssey, along with the two poems of Hesiod, Theogony and Works and Days, comprised the major foundations of the Greek literary tradition that would continue into the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. The Iliad is set during the Trojan War, the ten-year siege of the city of Troy by a coalition of Greek kingdoms. It focuses on a quarrel between King Agamemnon and the warrior Achilles lasting a few weeks during the last year of the war. The Odyssey focuses on the ten-year journey home of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, after the fall of Troy. The Theogony is commonly considered Hesiod's earliest work. It concerns the origins of the world (cosmogony) and of the gods (theogony), beginning with Chaos, Gaia, Tartarus and Eros, and shows a special interest in genealogy. The Works and Days is a poem of over 800 lines which revolves around two general truths: labour is the universal lot of Man, but he who is willing to work will get by.

About the author

Gilbert Murray (1866-1957) was a distinguished British classical scholar and public intellectual known for his profound contributions to the study of Greek literature and translation of classical texts. An emeritus professor at Oxford University, Murray dedicated a significant portion of his career to understanding and elucidating the intricacies of ancient Greek culture. His scholarly works often serve as seminal readings for students of the classics. Among his myriad of influential publications, 'Homer and Hesiod: The Foundations of Ancient Greek Literature' stands out as an essential exploration into the literary legacy of these pivotal Greek poets, providing insights into the social and religious contexts of their works. Murray is celebrated for his eloquence and ability to make classical literature accessible to a broader audience. His literary style is characterized by clarity and a deep humanistic approach that aligns with his interest in international peace and the well-being of society at large, which was reflected in his involvement with the League of Nations. Murray's contributions to classical scholarship and his promotion of cultural understanding remain vital to contemporary studies of antiquity.