This concise book is a complete and contemporary introduction to Homer and his two master-works, the Iliad and the Odyssey. It explains the "Homeric Question," illuminating its current status, and critiques the literary qualities of the Iliad and the Odyssey, analyzing and contrasting their plotting, narrative technique, and characterization.

Chronological Chart. Preface to the Second Edition. Preface to the First Edition. Introduction. Part I: Background:. 1. The Philologist’s Homer. 2. The Historian’s Homer. 3. The Reader’s Homer. Part II. The Poems:. 4. The Iliad. 5. The Odyssey. 6. Conclusion and Summary: Homer's Complementary Poems. Part III: Reception:. 7. Homer and The Philosophers. 8. Homer and The Poets. Notes. Appendix: For Further Reading. Index

This concise book is a complete and contemporary introduction to Homer and his two master works, the Iliad and the Odyssey. It explains the “Homeric Question,” illuminating its current status, and critiques the literary qualities of the Iliad and the Odyssey, analyzing and contrasting their plotting, narrative technique, and characterization. Updated throughout, this second edition includes a new section on Homer’s reception in ancient Greece; a new chapter on Homer and archaeology; additional maps; an updated bibliography; a glossary of names and key terms; and new information on the oral composition of the poems. Assuming no prior knowledge of Greek, the author supplies all the background information necessary to understand the poems, making this an ideal resource for those coming to the field for the first time.

“Remains the substantial and erudite introduction that it was on first printing. Powell writes with confidence, elegance, and a brisk tone, which means that the book, though aimed at an audience of specialists and non-specialists alike, is still a pleasure for the professional Homerist to read. Powell's book does a superb job of covering a wide range of relevant material, while remaining an entertaining and engaging walk through the state of the art of Homeric scholarship at the opening of the twenty-first century.” New England Classical Journal Praise for the first edition: “Powell admirably wrestles an almost impossible amount of material into a coherent presentation for his target audience ... It is well written in a clear and accessible style. Honest in his aims, Powell admirably introduces the genius and challenge of the Homeric works.” Bryn Mawr Classical Review “The book has a refreshingly personal touch ... Powell succeeds very well in making Homer’s poetry and Homeric problems appealing to his intended readers.” Classical Bulletin “Powell offers an impressive introduction to Homer, focusing on the epic texts for which he is known, the Iliad and the Odyssey … Highly recommended.” Library Journal “…this is a useful book as it introduces a wide range of topics with clarity…will certainly inspire readers to pursue the further study of Homer.” Bryn Mawr Classical Review, February 2008