Originally published in 1952, this book is based upon the J. H. Gray lectures for 1949, delivered in Cambridge, which dealt with the Iliad as a historic event, with discussion on the circumstances of its composition and first performance, its effect on Greek civilisation, and its intrinsic nature. The text presents the content for all three lectures: 'The Poet's Circumstances'; 'The Poet's Descendants'; and 'The Creative Poet'. A detailed appendix section is also included, together with illustrative figures and indices. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in perspectives on the Iliad and its historical context.