The Humour of Homer and Other Essays

"The Humour of Homer and Other Essays" by Samuel Butler is a collection of writings from the late 1800s covering literary, artistic, and scientific concepts, underscored by the element of humor in classical creations. The book's central essay, "The Humour of Homer," dissects the humorous elements within Homer's epic poems, the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey," while challenging established perspectives and the question of who originally wrote them. These essays show Butler's individual approach as a critic and thinker of his era, illuminating creativity and human experiences viewed through humor. R. A. Streatfeild's opening provides background on Butler's aims and the historical circumstances around his Homer analysis. Butler starts by urging readers to view Homer as an ordinary person with flaws, not just as a respected figure. He examines interactions between the characters of the "Iliad", noting the humor and cleverness in the interactions between Achilles, the gods, and Achilles' mother, Thetis. This leads to an exploration of humanity reflected in ancient writings, prompting readers to reconsider common interpretations of Homer and the themes present in his works.