highlights
The Greek word epos means simply “word” or “story” or “song.” It is related to a verb meaning “to say” or “to tell,” which is used (in a form with a prefix) in the first line of the poem. The narrator commands the Muse. “Tell me”: enn-epe. An epic poem is, at its root, simply a tale that is told. Page 1
Different things will happen every day, but Dawn always appears, always with rosy fingers, always early. Page 4
There was no holy scripture in the classical world, but everyone knew the stories of Achilles and Odysseus as told in the Homeric poems. Page 16
Eating is important in The Odyssey, and eating the wrong things or eating in the wrong way results in violence or death. Page 28
His intelligences sets him apart from other adulterers and murderers. Page 31
There is a stranger outside your house. He is old, ragged, and dirty. He is tired. He has been wandering, homeless, for a long time, perhaps many years. Invite him inside. You do not know his name. He may be a thief. He may be a murderer. He may be a god. He may reminds you of your husband, your father, or yourself. Do not ask questions. Wait. Let him sit on a comfortable chair and warm himself beside your fire. Bring him some food, the best you have, and a cup of wine. Let him eat and drink until he is satisfied. Be patient. When he is finished, he will tell his story. Listen carefully. It may not be as you expect. Page 91
The belly is just like a whining dog: it begs and forces one to notice it, despite exhaustion or the depths of sorrow. My heart is full of sorrow, but my stomach is always telling me to eat and drink. It tells me to forget what I have suffered, and fill it up. Page 215
Early the Dawn appeared, pink fingers blooming, and then he lit his fire and milked his ewes in turn, and set a lamb by everyone one. When he had diligently done his chores, he grabbed two men and made a meal of them. Page 249
After many years of agony and absence from one’s home, a person can begin enjoying grief. Page 363
Of all the creatures that live and breathe and creep on earth, we humans are the weakest. When the gods bestow on us good fortune, and our legs are spry and limber, we think that nothing can ever go wrong; but when the gods bring misery and pain, we have to bear our suffering with calm. Our mood depends on what Zeus sends each day. Page 413