The Iliad (Norton Library)

By Homer

Book Overview

The Norton Library edition of The Iliad features the complete text of Emily Wilson's renowned 2023 translation. An elucidating introduction explores the poem's Bronze Age origins, its major themes, and its unsurpassed impact and influence. Also included in this edition are specially -drawn maps, a glossary (with pronunciation), and summaries and extensive notes for each book. The Norton Library is a growing collection of high-quality texts and translations--influential works of literature and philosophy--introduced and edited by leading scholars. Norton Library editions prepare readers for their first encounter with the works that they'll re-read over a lifetime. Inviting introductions highlight the work's significance and influence, providing the historical and literary context students need to dive in with confidence. Endnotes and an easy-to-read design deliver an uninterrupted reading experience, encouraging students to read the text first and refer to endnotes for more information as needed. An affordable price (most $10 or less) encourages students to buy the book and to come to class with the assigned edition.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1324102071
• ISBN13: 9781324102076
• Release Date: May 2025
• Publisher: W W Norton & Co Inc
• Length: 755 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 7.8" x 1.5" x 5.0"

Customer Reviews

The ground is dark with blood.

With many books, translations are negligible, with two obvious exceptions: one is the Bible, and surprisingly, the other is The Iliad. Each translation can give a different insight and feel to the story. Everyone will have a favorite. I have several. There are partial translations that are worth reading, but as with any abridgment or incomplete Iliad, you will never know what is missing. Our story takes place in the ninth year of the ongoing war. We get some introduction to the first nine years, but they are just a background to this tale of pride, sorrow, and revenge. The story will also end abruptly before the end of the war. We have a wide conflict between the Trojans and Achaeans over a matter of pride; the gods get to take sides and many times direct spears and shields. Although the more focused conflict is the power struggle between two different types of power. That of Achilles, son of Peleus and the greatest individual warrior, and that of Agamemnon, lord of men, whose power comes from his position. We are treated to a blow-by-blow inside story as to what each is thinking and an unvarnished description of the perils of war and the search for Arête (to be more like Aries, God of War). Next, before reading the Odyssey, you will want to bridge the gap with “The War at Troy: What Homer Didn't Tell” by Quintus of Smyrna.