The Best of Homer's Odyssey
24 Readings (Books 1-24)
Books 4 through 24 are on the way.
The following 24 readings, the 24 books of Homer's Odyssey, present the best of Homer's Odyssey in two forms. First, there is the best of the poem, about half, translated straight from Homer (displayed in Roman type). The rest of the poem, which appears in italics, is presented in narrative summary form. If you read the Odyssey this way, you'll get the best of the poem without missing out on anything essential. Enjoy!
Note: numbers found in the text are line numbers. For instance, 158-220 refers to lines 158 through 220. Numbers in brackets let you know where you are in the poem. For example, [10] indicates line 10 and the nine lines that come after line 10.
We are in the process of posting all 24 readings.
For now, enjoy books 1-3.
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Maps Related to Homer's Odyssey
Map 1 - The Journey of Odysseus (A Possible Reconstruction)
Click on the map for a PDF copy.
The above reconstruction*, however fanciful and despite the criticism of some scholars, offers some idea of where Odysseus and his men may have ventured.
*Based on the mid-twentieth century voyages and reconstruction of yachtsman Ernle Bradford.
Note: some modern place names are given for purposes of orientation.
Map 1 - The Journey of Telemachus
Click on the map for a PDF copy.
Beginning in Ithaca, Telemachus sails to Pylos to speak with Nestor.
From Pylos, he travels by chariot to Sparta, with Peisistratus, the son of Nestor, to confer with Menelaus. On the way, they stay in Pherae with Diocles, the son of Ortilochus.
The return journey is virtually identical except for the end, when Telemachus and his men maneuver to avoid the suitors, who wait in ambush on nearby Asteris (an island between Ithaca and Samos, or Same).
The identity and location of Odysseus’ town on Ithaca are unknown.