In Book 12 of The Iliad, the Trojans interpret the sight of the eagle dropping the blood-red snake after being attacked by it as an omen that the Achaeans still have some fight left in them. The young Trojan warriors are convinced that if they break the wall and push the enemy back to their ships, then the Greeks will fight back, killing many Trojans in the process. The fighting about the wall has great significance in that it represents the last thing holding back the Trojans from attacking the Greek ships.

Sarpedon's speech to his cousin Glaucus in Book 12 of The Iliad displays an aristocratic code of honor. Sarpedon and Glaucus are both kings and believe that by fighting and winning glory, they will be rewarding their subjects for their loyalty. Whatever happens, Sarpedon is certain that he and Glaucus' participation in the war will lead to glory.