The Odyssey is an epic poem written by Homer about Odysseus's journey home after the Trojan War. It takes Odysseus 10 years to return home to Ithaca from the war, facing many obstacles along the way, including encounters with monsters, gods, and suitors competing for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage. The poem details Odysseus's adventures as he overcomes challenges through his bravery, cleverness, and strength to finally return home to his family after many years away at war.