Homer: The Iliad

by Michael Silk

Michael Silk covers the poem's historical context, composition and extensive influence in this distinctive critical introduction to Homer's Iliad, the earliest epic poem, and the earliest known work of literature in ancient Greece. Silk relates its literary power to the peculiar coherence and inter-relation of such aspects of the poem as its style, character-portrayal and ideology. This revised edition considers recent scholarship and includes an updated guide to further reading. First Edition Hb (1986): 0-521-32814-4 First Edition Pb (1986): 0-521-31302-3

Genres: Classics

103 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, it is "A Student Guide". Short, but it was a bit of a chore to get through. Some wonderful insights of his own, and also sharing important ideas from other critics. But, lacks vibrancy and humor - something that other Homeric scholars have been able to include in their texts.
I'm back to Homer after 40 years, and now finding that I need to read HIM, rather than books about him. On to the Oyssey!
The "Guide to Further Reading" is made up of a handful of short pieces, each in essay form. Unfortunately, when he cites critical works in his text he gives the author's name and the page number. It is then up to the reader to try and find that book in whichever and wherever in the short bibilographic pieces at the end of the book! Not handy.
Given all that, I do appreciate his scholarship, and including so much important information and critic theory in a short, introductory volume. I would read something by him again if I came acorss it.

[Zeba Clarke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely helpful, although some of the analysis of poetic technique is hard going. Very worthwhile.

[Katrin Baker]

pretending I’m still a student

[Nat]

This is a helpful overview of basic topics in the Iliad, and contains both a useful summary of the essential elements of the plot and a bibliography that led me to an interesting Nietzsche essay on Homer.

[yamiyoghurt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good companion to reading and appreciating Iliad.

Content is clearly presented and concise.