Theodore Buckley was primarily a translator of classical works. His scholarly efforts focused on Homeric epics, with his literal prose translations of the Odyssey and the Iliad, complete with explanatory notes, making these foundational works accessible. Beyond translation, Buckley explored the grandeur and ruin of ancient cities, as evidenced by his influential book on the subject, rich with stories and legends. His literary contribution lies in his meticulous approach to rendering and contextualizing ancient texts and history for contemporary readers.
The abduction of the beautiful Helen, wife of the King of Sparta, caused the ten-year Trojan War. Homer, who lived in Greece in the eighth century BCE, describes the thrilling events of the last year of the war. The Iliad and The Odyssey are the first European works of literature.