Tales of Troy: Ulysses, the Sacker of Cities

by Andrew Lang

"Tales of Troy: Ulysses, the Sacker of Cities" by Andrew Lang is a retelling of the classic tales surrounding the Trojan War, written in the early 20th century. This narrative delves into the legendary exploits of Ulysses—who is also known as Odysseus—and touches upon themes of heroism, cunning, and the tumultuous events that lead to the famous siege of Troy. The book explores the intricate relationships among key figures, including Ulysses, Achilles, and Hector, set against the backdrop of one of mythology's most enduring sagas. At the start of this retelling, the origins of Ulysses are introduced, detailing his upbringing in the island kingdom of Ithaca under King Laertes. The narrative paints a vivid picture of life in ancient Greece, depicting the lifestyle, the customs of warfare, and the societal structure of the time. Ulysses emerges as both clever and courageous, learning to become a skilled warrior despite his modest beginnings. The section furthermore introduces his marriage to Penelope and the rising tensions that lead to the infamous abduction of Helen, setting the stage for the conflict between the Greeks and Trojans that defines the core of the Trojan War.