Ancient / Classical History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Ancient / Classical History

Homeric Questions

Homeric Geography

Review: Relevant Strands in Homeric Questions series
  • Homer lived many generations after the Trojan War.


  • The Greeks of the epics didn't describe themselves as Greeks (Hellenes), but as Achaeans, Danaans, etc.
    "Before the Trojan war there is no indication of any common action in Hellas, nor indeed of the universal prevalence of the name .... The best proof of this is furnished by Homer. Born long after the Trojan War, he nowhere calls all of them by that name, nor indeed any of them except the followers of Achilles from Phthiotis, who were the original Hellenes: in his poems they are called Danaans, Argives, and Achaeans"
    - Thucydides


  • Homer may have been born in Smyrna (settled 11th C by Aeolians, but in Ionian hands by 7th C), and is believed to have lived in Chios, both in Ionia.


  • Between the time of the Trojan War and Homer there was a Dark Age in Greece.

Return to Homeric Questions VIII
Homeric Geography

Explore Ancient / Classical History

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

Ancient / Classical History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Ancient / Classical History

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.