João Paulo II University Library presents the bibliographic exhibition “Back to Ithaca: Editions of the Odyssey”

The João Paulo II University Library presents, from October 1 to November 12, 2026, the bibliographic exhibition “Back to Ithaca: Editions of the Odyssey”, featuring a remarkable selection of editions from its rare book collection and special collections.

From Christopher Nolan’s recent film adaptation to James Joyce’s unforgettable rewriting in Ulysses, through translations, philological studies, and works of opera and theatre, the Odyssey is a classic not only because of its antiquity, but also because of its extraordinary capacity to be translated, represented, reinterpreted, and reinvented by successive generations of readers.

Over centuries of transmission and reception in Europe, Homer’s work has been subject to successive reinventions, now showcased in this bibliographic exhibition: from the Renaissance translations of Andrea Divo in the 16th century, and the first philological editions of the 17th and 18th centuries, to the beautifully illustrated editions of the 19th century and children’s editions published in Portugal in the 1930s.

Spanning five centuries of book history, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the role of editorial processes in shaping the classic we know today, revealing the extraordinary capacity for reinvention of a foundational text of Western literature.

The exhibition is open to the entire academic community and the general public, promoting free, inclusive, and open access to documentary heritage, culture, and knowledge.