Distinguished Professor of Classics, Emeritus at the City University of New York, Charles Rowan Beye will discuss his new book Odysseus: A Life. This is the first book to chronicle Homer’s epic fictional hero’s life from start to finish and is described as “a witty, unusual and fascinating biography of Odysseus.” Free. 6 p.m. Harvard Book Store. (EBO)

READING | Sarah Duant

Sarah Duant will be discussing her novel Birth of Venus. This historical fiction combines sacrifice and betrayal during Florence’s captivity under Savonarola to create a fascinating and intriguing story. Amanda Foreman has described Birth of Venus as “a tour de force”. 7 p.m. Wordsworth Books, Cambridge. (EBO)

Wednesday, March 3

MUSIC| Alaska!

Although a fairly new band on the Indie-Progressive Rock scene, Alaska! includes veterans from Folk Implosion, Sebadoh and Red Aunts. They have been compared to bands such as Death Cab for Cutie and The Decemberists. Their energetic debut album, “Emotions,” was released about a year ago. Tickets $8. 18+. 10p.m. The Middle East Upstairs. (AG)

READING | Robert Rotberg

Author of The Origin and Prevention of Major Wars, and State Failure and State Weakness in a Time of Terror, Robert Rotberg talks about his new book When States Fail: Causes and Consequences. This book comprises fourteen previously unpublished essays, which examine how and why states decay and what can be done to prevent this from happening in the future. 12.30 p.m. Room L150. First Floor, Littauer Building. (EBO)

Thursday, March 4

FESTIVAL | Ghungroo

The Harvard South Asian Association comes together once a year to put on a cultural celebration including comedy song and dance. Among the dances displayed are Bhangra ( Punjabi folk dance) and Rass ( Gujarati folk dance). This performance will mark the 15th anniversary of the Ghungroo cultural show at Harvard. With performances open to the Boston community, all four shows each year go on for sold out crowds. Tickets $10 student (with ID). 7:30 p.m. Agassiz Theatre. (RCS)

MUSIC | Engine Down

The labels of hardcore and emo don’t give justice to Engine Down. Breaking through the boundaries of the rock genre, they haven’t been afraid to be innovative. They incorporate instruments like the cello, piano, and the vibraphone into their rock. Engine Down will join fellow partners in punk The Jealous Sound and Moments of Grace. Tickets $10. 18+. 9 p.m. The Middle East Downstairs. (AG)