Robert DeVinck (aka Papa Lopaka) will be doing a dramatic reading of Homer’s epic poem The Iliad at 3pm this Wednesday, Feb. 18 at the Kihei Public Library. The poem, written in dactylic (or “heroic”) hexameter, takes place during the final year of the Trojan War. It tells of great battles and petty manipulations by the gods. It’s generally considered one of the earliest classics of Western literature.
A Feb. 13 news release from the Hawaii State Public Library System states that there will be a brief discussion and question-and-answer session following the reading. Lopaka will also encourage children to read the original book.
The reading and session afterword should take about an hour. It’s recommended for kids 6 to 12 and will include light snacks provided by the Kay A. Edwards Memorial Fund.
The Kihei Public Library is located at 35 Waimahaihai St. For more information, call the library at 808-875-6833.
Image of Achilles slaying Hector: Peter Paul Rubens/Wikimedia Commons