Greek poet, author of the Iliad and the Odyssey. Homer was probably born in Asia Minor (modern Turkey) and the dates of his birth and death are surmised from an analysis of his style. Homer wrote of war and adventure but often praised the virtues of rural life if not gardens.
Rather would I, in the sun's warmth divine,
Serve a poor churl who drags his days in grief
Than the whole lordship of the dead were mine.
(Odyssey xi.489)
