Homer's Iliad stands as the cornerstone of Western literature, weaving together divine intervention, heroic courage, and human frailty in the epic story of the Trojan War. This monumental work follows the wrath of Achilles, the noble Hector's fate, and the intervention of Olympic gods in mortal affairs. More than just a war story, the Iliad explores themes of honor, friendship, mortality, and the price of glory. With its rich cast of characters from both Greek and Trojan sides, Homer creates a complex narrative that has influenced countless works of literature, philosophy, and art throughout history. The epic's 24 books reveal the psychological depth of its heroes while painting a vivid picture of Bronze Age warfare, customs, and beliefs. From Achilles' quarrel with Agamemnon to the funeral of Hector, every episode resonates with emotional power and philosophical insight. The Iliad remains essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of Western thought and literature.