Why You Need to Read Homer

What is the magic of these ancient epics, recited over 2700 years ago? Carolyn Saunders speaks about Homer's Illiad and Odyssey. These poems can open a large world for any reader.

These ancient Greek epics are long poems, in metre, intoned and originally performed by a bard. The Iliad is centred in Troy, and the subject is the wrath of Achilles. The Odyssey is different; it's the story of a warrior returning from war and all that happens to him on the long journey home. Both these works form the earliest roots of European culture.

These poems were recited, usually by a blind bard after a feast; they were mesmerising! The words and images created would invoke a world of gods, nymphs, tragedy, sorrow, and triumph. They also raise countless questions for the reader, but the epic moves on at a swift pace.

But there is also wisdom in these ancient stories. There is practical wisdom, such as how to entertain guests and how to build a raft! There are also sentences like 'Curb your anger and conquer your arrogant pride'. But more than these is the large world the epic opens up. Reading Homer can have the effect of opening the reader's world; it's an exciting journey to explore these poems.


The School of Philosophy and Economic Science offers courses in practical philosophy and economics with justice as well as other subjects. It aims to approach philosophy in a practical way, encouraging students to apply philosophy in their lives. The School also introduces a mindfulness-type exercise leading eventually to mantra meditation.

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You may find this video relates also to ancient Greece, epic poetry, oral tradition, European culture, orality, epics, western wisdom, spirituality, spiritual practice.