Odysseus: A Life

Summary

In this highly unusual and entertaining book, acclaimed classicist Charles Beye imagines a biography of the fictional Bronze Age hero and puts his unique spin on Odysseus’ strange and adventuresome existence. With wit and insight, Beye portrays the character’s life, beginning as a young prince, as warrior and hero of the war with Troy, as wanderer trying to get home, as lover, and finally as king of his home, Ithaca. But Beye does more than just describe Odysseus’ life. He delves into the psychological complexities of this enigmatic individual and examines his motives and character.

Beye’s account reads like a modern novel, filled with fascinating analogies and references to our own era. With a distinct humor and wisdom, the author casts new light on one of the great figures of the Western imagination.