The "Odyssey," an ancient epic poem, is traditionally attributed to the poet Homer. It is believed to have been composed in the 8th century BCE and serves as a sequel to the "Iliad," another prominent work of Homer. The "Odyssey" chronicles the adventurous journey of Odysseus as he returns home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, facing numerous trials, including encounters with mythical creatures and divine beings. The poem is renowned for its themes of heroism, resilience, and the quest for identity, making it a foundational text of Western literature that continues to influence storytelling to this day.