Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of “The Odyssey” hit the big screen this week. Whether you are a fan of Nolan’s work or not, the reactions and debates we’ve seen across the board remind us of Homer’s immortal appeal, and why the story of Odysseus’ return to Ithaca has captivated audiences around the world for three millennia.

Christopher Nolan's adaptation of 'The Odyssey' has created a lot of controversy online, but academics are having a different conversation.

In Homer's epic, Odysseus is a cunning strategist who returns to Ithaca disguised as a beggar to spy on the greedy suitors occupying his palace.