Novel library / English / Literary fiction
The Odyssey
By Homer
Literary fiction · 古希腊 · 2017
Summary
The Odyssey is an ancient Greek epic poem traditionally attributed to Homer. After the Trojan War, Odysseus spends ten years trying to reach Ithaca while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus face a household occupied by suitors. The poem moves between the voyage and Ithaca, making homecoming, identity and the rebuilding of family as important as monsters and divine intervention.
Book details
- Author: Homer
- Original language: English
- Genre: Literary fiction · Ancient Greek epic poetry, mythology and homecoming
- Publisher: W. W. Norton
- Status: Published
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Themes
Homecoming · Identity · Hospitality · Family · Divine intervention
Reading highlights
- An epic poem rather than a modern novel
- Odysseus’s voyage is paired with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca
- Page counts, wording and even names vary by translation and edition
Main characters
- Odysseus — King of Ithaca and returning warrior
A resourceful survivor whose long route home tests his judgement, identity and endurance.
- Penelope — Queen of Ithaca
Odysseus’s wife, who resists the suitors and protects the household through patience and strategy.
- Telemachus — Son of Odysseus and Penelope
A young man seeking news of his father and a position within a threatened household.
- Athena — Divine ally
The goddess who repeatedly guides and supports Odysseus and Telemachus.
- Poseidon — Divine antagonist
The sea god whose anger makes Odysseus’s return far more dangerous.
Character notes are limited to names and relationships disclosed by the publisher or author. They avoid unverified fan claims.
About the author
Homer
Homer is the traditional name attached to the ancient Greek epics The Iliad and The Odyssey. The exact circumstances of composition remain a matter of scholarship, so the guide does not present a modern-style author biography as settled fact.
Other books
- The Iliad — Ancient Greek epic traditionally attributed to Homer
The Odyssey: book and film
The epic and the 2026 Universal film are different works. The film is an adaptation with its own cast, structure and creative choices; use Universal’s official page for film information and an edition page for book facts.
Official editions and reading
- ISBN
- 9780393089059
- Pages
- 592
- Publication date
- 2017-11-07
- Translator
- Emily Wilson
- Original language
- Ancient Greek
There is no universal page count. This guide identifies Emily Wilson’s 2017 W. W. Norton English translation (ISBN 9780393089059), listed at 592 pages; other translations and formats differ.
- W. W. Norton official book page — Verify publication data and find current authorised formats for The Odyssey.
- Official screen adaptation page
Content notes
Violence · Death · Enslavement · Sexual coercion in ancient myth
Frequently asked questions
What is The Odyssey about?
Odysseus is delayed by storms, divine hostility and a series of dangerous encounters after the Trojan War. In Ithaca, Penelope delays remarriage while Telemachus searches for news of his father. Their stories converge around recognition, loyalty and the recovery of the household.
Who wrote The Odyssey?
The Odyssey was written by Homer. This page links its factual claims to the publisher or author source.
Do I need to read another book first?
This is a standalone work and can be read without another book first.
How many pages is The Odyssey?
There is no universal page count. This guide identifies Emily Wilson’s 2017 W. W. Norton English translation (ISBN 9780393089059), listed at 592 pages; other translations and formats differ.
Is The Odyssey also a film or television series?
The epic and the 2026 Universal film are different works. The film is an adaptation with its own cast, structure and creative choices; use Universal’s official page for film information and an edition page for book facts.
Is The Odyssey a novel?
No. It is an ancient Greek epic poem. Modern editions may be sold like books, but describing the original work as a modern novel is inaccurate.
Which English translation should I read?
Translation choice depends on whether you want contemporary directness, a more formal register, extensive notes or performance-friendly verse. Compare a legal sample and the edition apparatus before choosing; page counts cannot be compared without naming the translator and format.
Where can I read or buy The Odyssey legally?
Use the W. W. Norton page to see the authorised print, ebook, audiobook or sample options available in your market. NovelRove does not host the book text or unauthorised downloads.
Sources and verification
- W. W. Norton official book page — 2026-08-30
- Emily Wilson · translation notes — 2026-08-30
- Universal Pictures · official film page — 2026-08-30
