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Ashley

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The Reign of the Phallus: Sexual Politics in Ancient Athens

by Eva C. Keuls

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Feb 04, 2026 11:56PM

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The Iliad and The Odyssey (Barnes & Noble Leatherbound Classic Collection)

by Homer

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Ashley said: " I'm writing my review for the Iliad as of now, but I'll include my thoughts/take-aways for the Odyssey once I've finished that:

The Iliad is a very interesting experience in not only reading but understanding the foundation of writing/storytelling tha I'm writing my review for the Iliad as of now, but I'll include my thoughts/take-aways for the Odyssey once I've finished that:

The Iliad is a very interesting experience in not only reading but understanding the foundation of writing/storytelling that Homer constructed. It's incredible seeing trademark tropes and hallmarks of epic writing in the book, knowing that, on a technical level, it's the original form/culmination of all these familiar traits in writing/poetry. Yet, in some ways, Homer broke every rule that's been hammered in the heads of students. For example, this book does not shy away from what one may call "info-dumping," exposition, and "telling" more than "showing:" it will be a common sight to have a character moments from death begin to go in specific detail of who they are, who they are related to, etc. Yet, the lyricism that Butler is still able to retain through his translation aids in lulling the reader into a rhythmic flow. It makes you almost feel like there was a rekindled connection to innate human condition in storytelling.

In regards to Butler's translation and writing alone, he displays the pragmatic side of war and military enterprise. He also does not spirit away the notions of human as war prizes or the women the male characters have taken amid battle and besieges. This is the first time I'm reading the Iliad, and as of now, the only version, meaning I do not truthfully know if in this regard Butler is the outliner compared to most translations. For what I've read separately in discussions and articles, his translation is known to be more vivid with such depictions. Butler's translation also shows it's older style of vernacular and writing style, and without any pronunciation guides or annotations, this version may prove to be a tad more difficult and grueling for leisure reading. I do not regret picking this to be my first dive into the Homeric epics, but I am intrigued to read Fagles version and Wilson's, and see how different in readability and writing style all 3 diverge.

Regarding the story itself, I found myself really enjoying the character dynamics explored in the epic. Despite the fact most characters' tones and diction are undistinguishable, the constant use of ephetits will ensure you never get confused about who is talking, though you may forget with how long-winded some of these characters are (looking at you Nestor). The book revolves around war and the military, and the glory of it all. But, the characters steal every moment, especially when interacting with one another. My favorite was seeing Greater Ajax and Menelaus defy odds to protect their injuried comrade Odysseus. The absolute himbo energy these men -- who are most the time kings and princes -- exude is a level that I didn't know existsed. ...more "

Jan 26, 2026 10:48PM · see review