
The Odyssey - by Homer - DONE INTO ENGLISH PROSE by S. H. BUTCHER, M.A. Fellow and Protector of University College, Oxford Late Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge AND A. LANG, M.A. Late Fellow of Merton College, Oxford
The Odyssey
BOOK I.
BOOK II.
BOOK III.
BOOK IV.
BOOK V.
BOOK VI.
BOOK VII.
BOOK VIII.
An ancient Greek saga of homecoming and hardship unfolds across a sea of fragrant winds and restless gods. A clever, wily hero sets sail from the smoldering ruins of Troy, yearning for the familiar hearth of Ithaca while the divine powers above him scheme and temper his fate. The tale mixes bold adventure with tender moments of longing, letting listeners feel the pull of both destiny and domestic love. Its vivid language captures the clash of mortal courage and immortal whimsy, inviting the ear to glide over storm‑tossed waves and whispering shorelines.
Early in the journey, the protagonist and his loyal crew encounter a towering, one‑eyed monster whose cavernous lair tests their cleverness and camaraderie. Along the way they face enchanting sorceresses, fierce tempests, and the ever‑present threat of hunger and hubris, each episode revealing a new facet of the hero’s character. The narrative balances the awe of epic battles with the quiet introspection of men far from home, making every encounter feel both monumental and intimately human.
Rendered in a smooth, lyrical prose that respects the original poetry while remaining clear for modern ears, this translation lets the timeless story flow effortlessly, perfect for listeners seeking both drama and depth.
Language
en
Duration
~13 hours (751K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Jim Tinsley
Release date
1999-04-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

-750–-650
Little is known for certain about the poet behind the Iliad and the Odyssey, but the stories linked to him helped shape Greek literature and have influenced readers for centuries. The mystery around his life only adds to the lasting power of the epics.
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