The Iliad by Homer

Why read the book? Homer wrote The Iliad around 800 BC. It is one of the oldest and greatest works in Western literature. The poem tells the story of the final weeks of the Trojan War. It focuses on the anger of Achilles, the greatest Greek warrior. When Agamemnon takes his prize Briseis, Achilles refuses to fight. This decision brings terrible suffering to the Greek army. The story shows fierce battles, the roles of the gods, and the human cost of pride. It ends with the death of Hector and the sorrow it brings. The book helps readers understand ancient ideas about honour, fate, and what it means to be human. It also shows how small insults can lead to great destruction. Homer uses powerful language to describe both the glory and the horror of war. The poem remains exciting and moving even after nearly three thousand years. Favourite quote Let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that shall be told among men hereafter. What I Loved…