"The Iliad" by Homer

One of the oldest war stories ever told. The lesser-known of Homer's works. People are quicker to recognize The Odyssey than The Iliad, I think.(English Lit students are exempt from this generalization, of course.)

It's lyrical in many ways, although I found myself getting tripped up in a number of places where Homer does his 'son of so-and-so, who's son is so-and-so' . There was also parts that read like the begets in the bible. It was like a cataloging of those who'd fell in battle. But that's what Greek Poets did. Recorded events in such a way that they could be repeated, saved, and survive. Record-keeping in poem form. But this also tells us that real life is just as fascinating as fiction. Of course, fiction had to have something to work from. And what do we have? Life. Art imitating life.

When I read Homer's descriptions of the fighting, I couldn't help but be reminded of Le Morte de Artur. Only more stabings and bludgeonings than decapitations.
The starkness of the battles. Homer makes them sound so barbaric. Which they were. Hurling spears and rocks. Very raw.
And at the same time, very grand--Closing with compassionate gestures and very dramatic funeral services for the heroes who'd fallen.

It's a heavy read. No doubt. But a no less essential read. In terms of the world of literature, it gives you a greater appreciation for references and allusions. Homer's work is so timeless in many respects. Speaking universal truths that still hold true for us today. If you're a person who enjoys that sort of thing and are a bit of a 'Literature Analyst', The Iliad is an essential addition to your Mental Tool Box.