Marco Bonfiglio 
The Odyssey in prose for eveyone 

​The Odyssey has earned its place as the trailblazing novel of the Western world. What makes this epic tale timeless? It’s a mix of factors that have cemented its enduring appeal: the modernity of its central figure, Odysseus, a hero navigating a treacherous path to return home, coupled with his unmistakable humanity, mirroring our own penchant for finding ourselves in tight spots.

In this epic odyssey, we encounter a cast of characters that could easily fit into today’s world – the audacious, the naive, the romantics, and the wise.

In this edition, just as with the Iliad (Fermento 2004) and the Aeneid (Fermento 2004), Marco Bonfiglio weaves a masterpiece that marries timeless storytelling with contemporary language. The Odyssey morphs into a captivating narrative, an action-packed saga of emotions and adventure. Dialogues, descriptions, and emotions take on a fresh, accessible light that speaks to everyone.

Odysseus’ return to Ithaca isn’t just a quest to reunite with loved ones and homeland; it’s the ultimate aspiration of our hero, a reason to fight, an opportunity to acknowledge his flaws, and a step toward becoming a better man. It’s an endeavor to reclaim a dreamt life, one thwarted by the Trojan War. In the pursuit of this dream, Odysseus fearlessly confronts hostile tribes, Cyclopes, enchanting sirens, cunning sorceresses, formidable goddesses, and arrogant suitors vying for Penelope’s hand. He’s irresistibly drawn to the unknown, recognizing that oftentimes, great sacrifices are the price of wisdom – not unlike our daily struggles to attain a life of contentment.