The Iliad of Homer: Translated into English Blank Verse by William Cowper

An ancient epic poem that recounts events during the Trojan War, likely written in the 8th century BC. The narrative centers on the wrath of Achilles, the greatest Greek warrior, and his conflict with Agamemnon, the leader of the Greek forces, providing insights into themes of pride, honor, and the impact of divine powers on human affairs. At the start of the poem, a pestilence strikes the Greek camp as a result of Agamemnon's dishonor towards Apollo's priest. This prompts Achilles to call for a council, where tensions rise between him and Agamemnon, leading to Achilles withdrawing from battle. In an effort to restore honor and seek vengeance, Achilles seeks the help of his mother, Thetis, to plead with Zeus to support the Trojans in battle, setting the stage for the catastrophic consequences of their conflict. The opening establishes the epic's themes of anger, pride, and the intermingling of fate and divine influence.