Homer Book summary

The author of the "Odyssey" is generally considered to be Homer, a Greek, and likely a performer who recited poetry as his profession. His performances were, most likely, accompanied by musical instruments, and were created for entertainment purposes. The poetic mechanisms of his writings made it easier for performers (likely even himself) to recite long passages accurately, from memory, including the "Odyssey" in its entirety. Many scholars believe it likely that Homer was blind, based partly upon assumptions made from his writings, and also due to the belief that many such performers of the time were blind (as entertainment was often one of the few professions offered to the blind at that time). 

Homer's identity, however, remains controversial to this day, as historical records often contradict each other. No fewer than seven Greek cities claim to be Homer's birthplace. Adding to the controversy is the debate over whether the "Odyssey" (and another famous epic attributed to Homer, the "Iliad") was written by one man (Homer) or was a collaborative work of two different men. 

Even the date that Homer wrote the "Odyssey" remains uncertain. It is generally accepted that it was written around 700 BC, although some scholars believe that it could have been composed as early as the mid- 800's BC, or as recently as the early- 600's BC. It is widely believed that the story had existed for centuries before, being shared verbally, but that this is the first version known to be written. 

To this day, the "Homeric Question" is debated by historians, scholars, philosophers, and even fans. This refers to the controversy that remains regarding who Homer was, where he lived, what he wrote, and even the circumstances that may have inspired the writings.