The "Iliad" and "Odyssey," two of the greatest epic poems in Western literature, were written by the ancient Greek poet Homer. The "Iliad," set during the Trojan War, focuses on the themes of heroism, glory, and the human condition through the experiences of its characters, particularly Achilles. The "Odyssey" follows the adventures of Odysseus as he struggles to return home after the war, emphasizing themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the quest for identity. These works, composed in the 8th century BCE, have profoundly influenced literature, storytelling, and the understanding of ancient Greek culture.