Through eight Homeric Hymns and through excerpts from The Iliad and The Odyssey, this volume tells the story of each epic, and introduces students, teachers, and general readers to mythology and literary study. Clear and copious footnotes reveal the essence of the epic poet's art. Analytical and creative writing suggestions and sample essays provide training in composition.

Longtime English teacher Helaine L. Smith describes how she reads and teaches great writing with students in grades seven through twelve at Manhattan's Brearly School. The works she addresses include "The Death of Ivan Ilych," "The Cask of Amontillado," "Waiting for Godot," William Shakespeare, and selections from her own translations of the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey."