"Ilium" by Dan Simmons is a compelling blend of science fiction and literary allusion, deeply inspired by Homer's "Iliad." The narrative unfolds across two primary settings: the distant future of Earth, where scholars study the Trojan War, and the mythological landscape of ancient Greece, featuring gods and heroes engaged in epic battles. Simmons intricately weaves these timelines, touching on the themes of memory, fate, and the nature of humanity, as well as examining the role of storytelling itself.
The story follows characters like the scholar, Dr. Achilles, and the enigmatic beings known as the "Post-Humans," who manipulate events from afar. The narrative’s complexity is heightened by the focus on characters whose fates are entwined with classical figures, leading them to confront their own internal and external conflicts. This structure invites readers to reflect on the impact of myth and history on contemporary identity and existence.