The Iliad in 6 volumes

5RR Homer, translated by Mr. Pope, London, 1715. In 6 Volumes: 1-5 rebound, volume 6 in original binding.

Notes

The Iliad is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to the poet Homer, and it is one of the foundational works of Western literature. Traditionally dated to the 8th century BCE, it is set during the Trojan War, a conflict between the Greek (Achaean) forces and the Trojans, and it focuses primarily on a few weeks in the final year of the war. The Iliad's origins are rooted in the oral tradition of storytelling, passed down through generations before being transcribed into its current form. It reflects the cultural, social, and military values of ancient Greece and provides rich insights into the concepts of heroism, honor, and fate, themes that resonate throughout Western thought.

The poem centers on the rage of Achilles, the greatest Greek warrior, who withdraws from battle after a dispute with Agamemnon, the Greek leader. This anger has profound consequences, leading to the deaths of many warriors and shaping the course of the war. Key figures like Hector, the Trojan prince, also play major roles, and the epic explores the personal and collective costs of war, along with the influence of the gods on human affairs. The Iliad's significance extends far beyond the story itself; it has influenced not only later Greek literature but also Western literature and culture, shaping themes in literature, philosophy, and even modern-day concepts of heroism and sacrifice. Its importance as a cultural touchstone in the Western literary canon cannot be overstated.

Description

Volumes one through five rebound in three quarter leather with purple and white marbled boards. Five raised bands with gilt lettering in the second compartment and details along the upper and lower spine. General browning to interior pages and minimal foxing. Fully intact. Volume six still in original brown leather binding. Embossed details boarder the in upper and lower boards. Six raised bands whir faded embossed letters in the second compartment and embossed ‘6’ in the third. Chipping to the lower spine. Cracking and chipping to both sides of spine hinge. Bumped edges with fraying and faded leather. Rubbing to the embossed extremities. Fogging to the leather along the spine. Some scuffing to upper and lower boards. Minimal foxing and browning within. All volumes intact. Volume 2 contains two bookworm holes through several preliminary pages. One through five are in very fine condition and volume six is in Very good condition overall.