The Odysseys of Homer, together with the shorter poems

The Odyssey is one of the major ancient Greek epic poems attributed to Homer and a part of the world's literary heritage. The Odyssey is one of the oldest extant works of literature still read by contemporary audiences. The work tells about the Greek hero Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his journey home after the Trojan War. The book also contains several other poems by Homer.

Homer stands amongst the most towering figures in literary history, often hailed as the greatest of ancient Greek epic poets. While his life remains shrouded in mystery, with some doubting his existence entirely or positing a plurality of Homers, the traditionally accepted chronology places him in the so-called Archaic period of Greece, around the 8th century BCE. His monumental works, 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey,' serve as cornerstone texts of classical literature and have influenced countless subsequent works and Western thought at large.

Despite the scant historical evidence directly pertaining to his life, the Homeric epics have been sources of extensive scholarly study and analysis. 'The Odyssey,' often coupled with 'The Iliad' lays bare a literary style that marries grand narrative arcs with intricate detail, exploring themes of heroism, honor, and human folly. The Homeric influence stretches far, with his methods of narrative and employment of the Homeric similes setting benchmarks for epic poetry. 'The Odysseys of Homer, together with the shorter poems,' is a testament to his craft, showcasing the poet's ability to enthrall generations with the tale of Odysseus' protracted journey home from the Trojan War. Scholars like Richmond Lattimore and Robert Fagles have sought to translate these timeless stories, revealing a poetic genius that harmonizes plot, character, and the divine in a world of ancient mythos.