Homer’s Epic “Odyssey” to be Read Aloud at National Hellenic Museum’s “Homerathon”
The ancient Greek poet Homer’s Odyssey is arguably considered the greatest adventure story ever told, inspiring many contemporary literary adaptations and films about heroes embarking on fateful and twisting journeys as they make their way home. On October 25 & 26, 2024, the National Hellenic Museum (NHM) and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Department of Classics and Mediterranean Studies will present their popular “Homerathon”, a reading of the Odyssey aloud in its entirety with public participation.
“There is a reason this ancient text is so enduring. Homer’s Odyssey brims with universal themes: the emptiness of loss, the unpredictability of love, and the strength and endurance of the human spirit through incredible challenges,” says Katherine Kelaidis, NHM’s Director of Research and Content. “Reading the poem aloud honors the oral storytelling tradition of ancient epics, which were recited aloud to audiences, usually by memory. Of course, during our Homerathon, readers will have the text in front of them!”
The original text of Homer’s Odyssey was written in ancient Greek. During “Homerathon”, readings will primarily be from Professor Stanley Lombardo’s English-language translation. “Professor Lombardo’s mission was to translate Homer’s words to make them as exciting and engaging to hear aloud as the original Greek would have been to its first audiences. He read the audiobook version himself, so you know he worked hard to make his translation readable,” says Krishni Burns, Senior Lecturer of Latin at UIC’s Department of Classics and Mediterranean Studies. “We will also have the original Greek available, along with modern Greek and Spanish translations. If you would like to read in any languages other than English, just let us know!”
Students and lifelong learners of all ages with an interest in Greek storytelling and mythology are encouraged to sign up in advance to read aloud a short three-minute passage from the Odyssey. School groups are welcome. Alongside the readings, educational activities will be offered throughout “Homerathon”, including play areas with replicas of ancient children’s toys such as astragaloi (ancient dice), and mythology-based coloring activities and puzzles.
“Homerathon” attendees will also have access to explore the entire Museum, including NHM’s core exhibition Reaching for the American Dream: The Greek Story in America as well as current exhibitions Gather Together: Chicago Street Photography by Diane Alexander White and Legacy, Renewal & Unity: Celebrating 100 Years of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate: Protecting the Future of Faith.
“Homerathon” is presented at the National Hellenic Museum (333 S. Halsted Street, Chicago) on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Registration for “Homerathon” readers is now open. For more information or to register as a reader, visit nationalhellenicmuseum.org/homerathon. Descriptions of the Odyssey passages available for recitation during the event are listed on this webpage. Select passages will be reserved for walk-in guests. Visit nationalhellenicmuseum.org or call 312-655-1234 for details.
