Artists & Writers · Ancient World

Homer’s Last Words

Homer photo
c. 800 BC c. 700 BC Greek
No recorded last words. Homer is a semi-legendary figure.
— Homer, c. 700 BC

Who Was Homer?

Homer was an ancient Greek poet traditionally credited as the author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, two foundational epics of ancient Greek literature that shaped Western storytelling.

The Final Moments

Homer's existence is debated by scholars. Ancient tradition held he was blind. Nothing is known of his death.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

Correctly stated: Homer's historicity is uncertain and no credible biographical details, including death circumstances, exist from antiquity.

Sources

  • other Ancient biographical traditions
  • academic Barry Powell 'Homer'

Legacy

The Iliad and Odyssey shaped Western literature and storytelling for over 2,700 years.

epic poetryIliadOdysseyancient Greecelegendary

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Homer’s last words?

“No recorded last words. Homer is a semi-legendary figure.”

How did Homer die?

Homer died on c. 700 BC. Cause of death: Unknown.

Were Homer’s last words documented?

Correctly stated: Homer's historicity is uncertain and no credible biographical details, including death circumstances, exist from antiquity.