The Odyssey

The Odyssey of Homer: A Modern English Translation: Volume 4: Books 13–16, The Return to Ithaca (Easy to Read Prose)

About the book

After years of hardship and adventure, Odysseus’ journey begins to turn toward home. But Ithaca is no longer the peaceful kingdom he left behind. His household is under pressure, his family is surrounded by danger, and those who should honor his name have grown bold in his absence.

In this volume, the story moves from distant adventures to the tense and uncertain world of Ithaca. Disguises, loyalty, secrecy, and careful planning become just as important as strength in battle. Old servants, family bonds, hidden identities, and the growing threat inside Odysseus’ own house all shape this powerful part of the epic.

This translation is written in clear, readable modern English prose while staying close to the meaning of the original Greek. It is not a loose retelling, summary, or adaptation. The aim is to preserve Homer’s story fully and accurately, while making it easy to follow for modern readers, students, and anyone coming to the Odyssey for the first time.

Inside this volume are:

Book 13 — The Return to Ithaca
Book 14 — The Loyal Swineherd
Book 15 — The Journey Back
Book 16 — The Hidden King
A faithful and accessible translation of the Ithaca section of Homer’s Odyssey, where the epic turns from wandering across the sea to danger, loyalty, and suspense at home.

Author Homer

Book familyGreat Texts Translated to Modern English

CollectionThe Odyssey

Available formatsKindle · Paperback

Choose your Amazon store

Amazon US Amazon UK

Recommended books

The Odyssey of Homer: A Modern English Translation: Volume 6: Books 21–24, The Bow, the Return, and the Peace of Ithaca (Easy to Read Prose)

The Odyssey of Homer: A Modern English Translation: Volume 5: Books 17–20, The Beggar in the Palace (Easy to Read Prose)

The Odyssey of Homer: A Modern English Translation: Volume 1: Books 1–4, The Telemachy (Easy to Read Prose)

The Odyssey of Homer: A Modern English Translation: Volume 3: Books 9–12, The Cyclops, Circe, Sirens, and the Underworld (Easy to Read Prose)