The Poetry of Homer

Sather Classical Lectures: The Poetry of Homer, Volume Fifteen provides a profound exploration of Homeric poetry through the lens of its poetic essence rather than its historical or critical origins. Prepared by Samuel Eliot Bassett before his untimely passing in 1936, the lectures argue for a renewed focus on the unity and artistry of the Iliad and Odyssey—monumental works that stand as foundational texts in Western literature. Eschewing the distractions of 19th-century Higher Criticism, which sought to fragment and analyze the origins of Homeric texts, Bassett advocates for a meticulous examination of the poems themselves to illuminate their universal and enduring poetic qualities.

The volume emphasizes the necessity of treating Homer as a singular poetic force, whether or not historical authorship can be definitively proven. By employing a scientific method rooted in evidence-based generalizations and interpretive analysis, Bassett seeks to uncover the principles that elevate Homeric poetry to its celebrated status. Asserting that Homer’s works are not merely historical artifacts but vibrant literary achievements, the lectures challenge scholars to shift their focus from speculative authorship debates to the intrinsic artistry of the texts. This volume stands as both a tribute to Bassett’s scholarly rigor and a call to deepen the appreciation of Homer’s unparalleled contribution to literature.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1938.