Classical Reference Library
Resources for exploring, reading, and teaching Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey and the epic tradition.
TEACHING THE CLASSICS
A classroom-oriented guide to the major characters in Homer’s Iliad, with explanations of their roles in the poem, relationships and traits to watch, and questions that help students understand Homer’s treatment of heroism, honor, leadership, war, and mortality.
Read resource →Small label above the title TEACHING THE CLASSICS
Small label above the title TEACHING THE CLASSICS
Read resource →Reference Guide by Ian Johnston
A chronological guide to the named deaths and major woundings in Homer’s Iliad, identifying the combatants, manner of death or injury, and corresponding lines in Ian Johnston’s translation.
Read resource →ESSAY ON THE ODYSSEY
A New Generation Discovers The Odyssey. This gives educators a new opportunity.
Read resource →HOMER & THE EPIC TRADITION
Ian Johnston explores the enduring appeal of Homer’s Odyssey, examining its narrative structure, its celebration of home and family, and the transformation of Odysseus from warrior to returning husband, father, and king.
Read resource →TEACHING THE CLASSICS
A guide to the major themes of Homer’s Odyssey, including homecoming, identity, hospitality, loyalty, temptation, leadership, mortality, divine intervention, and justice, with questions to help students connect these ideas across the poem.
Read resource →TEACHING THE CLASSICS
A practical guide to teaching Homer’s Iliad, with essential background, book-by-book guidance, central themes and questions, discussion topics, writing assignments, and a flexible framework for classroom use.
Read resource →TEACHING THE CLASSICS
A practical guide to teaching Homer’s Odyssey, with background for students, book-by-book guidance, central themes and questions, discussion topics, writing assignments, and a flexible framework for classroom use.
Read resource →Teaching the Classics
Renewed interest in The Odyssey is bringing Homer to a new generation. The challenge for educators is helping students encounter the poem in an accessible form without sacrificing its language, ideas, and enduring questions.
Read resource →Book Trailer
A visual introduction to Homer’s Odyssey and its themes of endurance, cunning, hospitality, homecoming, and belonging.
Read resource →Book Trailer
A visual introduction to the abridged Odyssey, preserving Homer’s epic themes of endurance, cunning, and the long search for home.
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