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Ancient Odyssey Fragment Found in Library Book
17 Sep
Summary
- A 1,700-year-old fragment of Homer's Odyssey was found.
- The fragment was discovered within a library book in the Netherlands.
- It dates back to approximately 300 AD and is from Book 12.
A rare, 1,700-year-old fragment of Homer's "Odyssey" was recently discovered in the Netherlands. Dr. Mark de Kreij of Radboud University found the ancient papyrus hidden within a library book during a project studying old manuscripts. The fragment, estimated to be from around 300 AD, was identified as part of the epic poem's 12th book.
This particular passage describes the starving sailors of Odysseus devouring sacred cattle belonging to the Sun God, Apollo. Researchers noted that such fragments are exceptionally rare worldwide, with only about 30 known to exist. The fragment itself is small, about the size of a playing card, and shows signs of age, including discoloration and moisture stains.
