Homeric Greek, the language of the Iliad and the Odyssey, carries a weight and rhythm that modern languages often lack. If you're an aspiring bard or just love the sound of ancient epics, these phrases will help you channel the spirit of Homer himself.
1. Μῆνιν ἄειδε, θεά (Mênin aeide, thea)
Μῆνιν ἄειδε, θεά
/ˈmɛː.nin ˈa.eː.de tʰeˈa/“Sing, goddess, of the wrath”
This phrase sets the tone for epic storytelling. It’s a direct call to the divine, asking for inspiration - something every bard needs.
2. Ἄνδρα μοι ἔννεπε, Μοῦσα (Andra moi ennepe, Mousa)
Ἄνδρα μοι ἔννεπε, Μοῦσα
/ˈan.dra moi ˈen.ne.pe ˈmuː.sa/“Tell me, Muse, of the man”
Like the first phrase, this one calls on the Muse, but with a focus on a single hero. It’s versatile - swap out "andra" (man) for another noun if needed.
3. ὦ πόποι (Ō popoi)
ὦ πόποι
/ɔ̂ː pó.poi̯/“Alas!”
A dramatic interjection that adds emotional weight to a scene. Imagine a bard pausing mid-tale to sigh, "Ō popoi..." before continuing.
4. θεοὶ δέ τε πάντα ἴσασιν (Theoi de te panta isasin)
θεοὶ δέ τε πάντα ἴσασιν
/tʰe.ói̯ dé te pán.ta í.sa.sin/“The gods know everything”
This phrase works well as a narrative device - drop it when a character’s actions catch up with them, or when the gods’ will becomes clear.
5. νόσφι φίλων (Nosphi philōn)
νόσφι φίλων
/nós.pʰi pʰí.lɔːn/“Apart from friends”
Ideal for melancholic moments. Pair it with a description of a lone figure gazing at the sea, and you’ve got instant pathos.
For more on how Homeric Greek compares to Latin, check out our guide on Homeric Greek vs Latin.
