Monsters, sirens and nymphs will invade the University Center mall Wednesday as students, faculty and community members perform Homer’s The Odyssey.

The Homerathon is a day-long recital of the epic poem written by the Greek poet Homer and will be read from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. by anyone interested. The Odyssey tells the story of Odysseus as he makes his way home through trials set before him by the god Poseidon and of his wife and son as they deal with his absence.

Interdisciplinary studies senior Molly Hoffman plans on participating in the event for the third year. She likes to hear the words brought to life, and the story sucks her in, she said.

“It’s adventure, love story, horror and monsters,” she said. “All the stuff you see on TV, the basic plot lines and stereotypes come from The Odyssey.”

Charles Chiasson, philosophy associate professor and classical studies director, said epic Greek poems like The Odyssey were written to be performed, not read. The event is intended to recreate the experience people would have had during ancient times, he said.

There will be props and goofy hats available for those who want to participate, and Dr. Chiasson encourages people to dress as a favorite character from any piece of literature.

“It’s the kind of goofy college thing that there needs to be more of at this campus,” Chiasson said.

Political science junior Amanda Hobbs went to the event last year for the first time and spent most of the day there. She considered the event a way for people to get together for something that is worthwhile and educational.

“It’s an interesting event,” she said. “It’s a way to get out the word about the classics program.”

Chiasson said he would love to see students come by and read. The text is broken into 60 parts that are about 15 minutes long. Individuals can sign up for blocks at the Web site or just show up. Scripts are provided and are available in the Philosophy and Humanities Office at 305 Carlisle Hall.

“In years past, there have always been surprises,” he said. “Someone will show up who you didn’t quite expect. We’ve had high school teachers bring their classes and staff members who gave — arguably — the best performances.”