The Canon Library

Author guide

Homer

Homer is the traditional name attached to the Iliad and the Odyssey. Because the poems emerge from an oral tradition and their composition cannot be reduced to a modern model of single authorship, the most useful starting point is the works and the tradition they preserve.

Where to start with Homer

Begin with The Odyssey, then follow the suggested sequence below as your interest grows.

Start with The Odyssey

Suggested reading order

  1. 1. The Odyssey

    Moderate · Long · 10–16 hours

  2. 2. The Iliad

    Moderate · Long · 12–18 hours

Books by Homer

Reading context

The cataloged works span Epic poetry. Follow the linked era, genre, and subject pages to place them alongside other works in the collection.

Related authors

Author guide

Virgil

Explore 3 works and a suggested starting point.

Author guide

Ovid

Explore 4 works and a suggested starting point.