Odyssey
In short
An ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer that tells the story of Odysseus's ten-year journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War.
In plain words
The story follows a hero trying to get back to his family after a long war. He faces many monsters and magical obstacles along the way. It is one of the oldest and most famous stories in history.
A simple example
Odysseus must use his wits to escape the one-eyed Cyclops while sailing across the sea. He also has to deal with the goddess Circe, who turns his men into pigs.
Why it matters
It shaped much of Western literature and storytelling. The themes of perseverance and the struggle to return home are still used in modern books and films.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with the Iliad, which focuses on the events of the Trojan War itself rather than the journey home.