Shakespeare's Sources: THE ILIAD • Book NINE

Shakespeare makes reference to people and events in the Trojan War in almost every play. Join us to read The Iliad, by Homer, one chapter (called a Book) at a time. The lengthy poem details just a few weeks toward the end of the war (as does Shakespeare's play Troilus and Cressida).

This is what AI says about The Iliad: The Iliad is a timeless epic that pulsates with the fiery clashes of gods and mortals amidst the Trojan War. It’s a saga of heroism, honor, and the complexities of humanity that weaves a tapestry of passions and conflicts. Homer’s masterful storytelling brings to life the valorous Greek Achilles, the Trojan prince Hector, and the intricate interplay between destiny and free will. Through vivid battles, divine interventions, and poignant human emotions, this epic poem invites readers into an ancient world teeming with larger-than-life characters and moral dilemmas, resonating across centuries, making it an immersive and compelling exploration of the human spirit.

Many of us have chosen to read the translation by Emily Wilson (daughter of Katherine Duncan Jones, a distinguished Shakespeare scholar), but you can choose any edition you prefer. We recommend you read the introduction while you wait until March 21!

This group operates like a book club—each week we will discuss the chapter we all read at home that week. But even if you haven’t had a chance to read it this week, feel free to join in the discussion!

See you there!
Jenny & Robin