This volume is a distinctive critical introduction to Homer's Iliad, the earliest epic poem.This volume is a distinctive critical introduction to Homer's Iliad, the earliest epic poem, and the earliest known work of literature in ancient Greece. Michael Silk deals with the poem's historical context, its composition and its extensive influence, and 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 takes account of recent scholarship in the field and includes an updated guide to further reading. It is essential reading for students of literature and classics.This volume is a distinctive critical introduction to Homer's Iliad, the earliest epic poem, and the earliest known work of literature in ancient Greece. Michael Silk deals with the poem's historical context, its composition and its extensive influence, and 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 takes account of recent scholarship in the field and includes an updated guide to further reading. It is essential reading for students of literature and classics.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): 0-521-31302-3Preface and note; 1. Homer's world and the making of the Iliad; 2. The poem; 3. The Iliad and world literature; Guide to further reading.