A would-be burglar in Rome found himself in an unusual predicament when he paused to read a book on Greek mythology during a robbery attempt, according to local reports.
The 38-year-old suspect managed to access an apartment in the capital’s Prati district through a balcony but became captivated by a copy of Homer’s Iliad resting on a bedside table.
The situation escalated when the 71-year-old homeowner awakened to find the alleged intruder absorbed in the book.
After the surprising encounter, the suspect attempted a hasty escape via the same balcony but was quickly apprehended by authorities. He reportedly claimed he had climbed the building to visit an acquaintance and mistook the residence for a bed and breakfast, stating, "I saw the book and started to read it."
Interestingly, the incident garnered the attention of the book’s author, who expressed interest in sending the suspect a copy of his work, wanting him to finish this unexpected reading experience.
Police later discovered that the thief was in possession of a bag filled with expensive clothing, which was believed to have been stolen from another home just hours earlier.
The incident highlights a bizarre twist on crime and literature, prompting commentary on the role of mythological figures, particularly Hermes, the god of thieves and literature, which adds an ironic layer to this surreal story.
