Which poet’s works often focused on the struggles of everyday life, particularly for small farmers?

The poet known for focusing on the struggles of everyday life, particularly those experienced by small farmers, is Hesiod. His works often reflect the realities of agricultural life and the challenges faced by the common man. In his notable poem "Works and Days," Hesiod offers practical advice for farming and discusses themes such as hard work, justice, and the moral lessons derived from daily labor. This poem serves as a guide for farmers, highlighting their hardships and the importance of perseverance, which resonates with the experiences of small agricultural communities.

In contrast, other poets like Archilochus, Pindar, and Aeschylus tended to focus on different themes. Archilochus was known for his personal and sometimes bitter poetry, often addressing themes of love and war rather than everyday labor. Pindar celebrated athletic victories and the nobility of exceptional individuals through odes focused on winners of the games, while Aeschylus, a playwright, explored heroic themes and the divine, often depicting grand historical or mythological events rather than the trials of ordinary life. Thus, Hesiod stands out as the poet deeply connected to the working class and the challenges they faced in their daily lives.