The Odyssey follows the epic journey of Odysseus as he struggles to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, facing numerous trials and obstacles along the way. The poem explores themes of perseverance, cunning, and the quest for home and identity, illustrating the hero's resilience and resourcefulness. Its historical impact on the Western canon is significant, as it not only complements the "Iliad" in establishing foundational epic traditions but also has influenced countless works of literature, narrative structure, and character development throughout Western literary history.
