Greek mythology has a rich history that is rooted in ancient times. Many stories about the gods have human qualities and feelings. They are often told with a human touch. These stories often present heroes as human beings, with mortal parents who serve as a bridge between the gods and mankind.
Homer
Homer is one of the most famous mythological figures in Greece. He is a blind poet who wrote Iliad, Odyssey and the Epics. While his works are widely recognized as being masterpieces of Greek literature and are highly regarded, we do not know anything about his life or origin. His stories are all based on hypothetical events and he had no known descendants.
Homer's poetry differs from other canonical Epic poets. His poetry is distinguished for its quickness, simple language and uncomplicated narrative. The dactylic foot, which consists of a stressed syllable followed with two unstressed. This metrical foot is what probably contributed to his speed. Homer's epics feel like they were written in a master story-teller's hand.
Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey, contains a number of historical events. Various commentaries have sought to explain these events. Homer's poems are still considered standard parts of Greek education.
Socrates
Athenians fought to preserve their past glory and ideas of wealth and beauty during the time of Socrates. Socrates refuted these notions and stressed the importance to the mind. Many Athenians appreciated Socrates' rejection of the common wisdom of the day. However, others hated him and were angry. Socrates was eventually accused of impiety and corruption of the youth of Athens, but he chose to defend himself in court.
Plato's time saw a different story than the one attributed to Xenophon. Xenophon is a military leader who sought to emphasize the traits of a good statesman. He described Socrates to be a man who valued knowledge and understanding oneself.