"The 'Odyssey' is a great informational portal where, without realizing it, we learn that man is history, culture, civilization, construction, invention, open-mindedness and transformation, as well as personal sorrows and joys, it is society and individual together".
(Jean-Pierre Vernant, October 2006)

When an ancient work sheds light on our own, present, truths...

This book, which is his last lecture, at the Lycée Le Corbusier in Aubervilliers, Jean-Pierre Vernant dedicates it to the journey of Odysseus' return to Ithaca, the multiple meanings of which he never ceased to explore and teach throughout his life. He talks about the purpose of existence in relation to identity, the importance of searching for oneself and one's place in society at every moment. At the same time, he ponders on death in relation to the value of life, on eternity and oblivion, on memory and love, on time and the concept of return.