The Iliad Book 23

Homeric Hymns Ares and more

In which Dionysus, appearing as a youthful god with dark hair and a purple robe, is seized by pirates who are confounded by his divine power and transformed into dolphins when he reveals his true nature, sparing only their helmsman. The muse then proceeds to sing brief and reverent hymns to a splendid assembly of Olympian deities and heroic figures, celebrating their attributes and honours in gentle praise.

Homeric Hymns Aphrodite and more

In which the Muse recounts the irresistible sway of golden Aphrodite, whose charms conquer gods and mortals alike, save for the steadfast hearts of Athene, Artemis, and Hestia, and how Zeus, in a divine edict, compels her to surrender to mortal love for Anchises, kindling a fateful passion set upon the hills of Ida. Thereupon, with a delicate mingling of mortal yearning and immortal counsel, Aphrodite reveals to Anchises the delicate burdens and blessings his union entails, foretelling a future rich with divine favour and mortal consequence beneath the watchful gaze of the gods.

Homeric Hymns Hermes

In which the cunning Hermes, newly born beneath the shadows of Cyllene, weaves enchantment from a humble tortoise shell to create a lyre and embarks upon a bold theft of Apollo’s cattle, leading to a celestial quarrel that calls forth the judgement of mighty Zeus. Thereupon, the two divine brothers reconcile through song and gifts, forging bonds of friendship and conferring upon Hermes his charge over herds, omens, and the subtle arts of guile.

Homeric Hymns Appollo

In which the radiant god Apollo is born on the island of Delos, where his mother Leto wrestles with the trials of divine labour, and the young deity establishes his sacred temples and oracular sites across the land, winning homage and reverence from both mortals and immortals alike. Amidst the splendour of his lyre and bow, Apollo’s presence commands awe and joy, bringing forth sacred rites, prophetic counsel, and a flourishing of song and sacrifice under his far-reaching influence.

Homeric Hymns Demeter

In which the mighty Demeter, goddess of the fruitful earth, wanders the mortal lands in sorrow and disguise, seeking her lost daughter and nursing a noble child with divine care. Through sorrow and steadfast will, she commands the cycle of seasons and reveals sacred rites to humankind, marking the solemn balance between light and gloom.