Themes: Anger and Hatred

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The opening words of the Greek original emphasize the importance of anger—specifically rage—in the Iliad. This term is uniquely attributed to three characters: Achilles (five times), Apollo (three times), and Zeus (three times), and it is also used twice to describe the gods collectively. However, the theme of anger permeates the entire epic. For example, the Trojans are furious at the Achaians for initiating a war against them. In contrast, the Achaians are angry with the Trojans for harboring Paris and refusing to return Helen to her lawful husband. Moreover, Hera and Athena hold anger, or even hatred, toward the Trojans in general and Paris in particular, because he selected Aphrodite over them as the most beautiful goddess before the war began.

Expert Q&A

What was Achilles's reaction to Patroclus's death in the Iliad?

Achilles's reaction to Patroclus's death in the Iliad is one of intense grief and blind rage. Initially shocked and silent, Achilles processes his friend's death as the loss of a beloved companion and a personal insult by Hector. This grief transforms into a vengeful pursuit, leading Achilles to kill Hector and desecrate his body, showcasing his deep emotional turmoil and fury.

What are three consequences of Achilles's anger in the Iliad?

The three major consequences of Achilles's anger in the Iliad are: first, the Achaeans begin to lose the war as Achilles withdraws from battle, leading to many deaths; second, Patroclus dies while fighting in Achilles's stead, shifting Achilles's rage towards Hector; and third, Achilles's return to battle results in Hector's death, effectively ending the Trojan's hope of victory.

Justify Achilles's rage and explain Zeus's decision in the context of the entire Iliad.

Achilles' rage at Agamemnon in the Iliad can be justified in the sense that Agamemnon was abusing his authority, trying to assert his superiority over warriors and heroes that would have been closer to peers than subjects. Therefore, Achilles appeals to Thetis, who appeals to Zeus, asking that Zeus support the Trojans against the Greeks, which would then vindicate Achilles and his grievance.

Is the subject of the Iliad the wrath of Achilles?

While Achilles' wrath is a central theme in The Iliad, the epic encompasses much more, including the interconnected actions and consequences of various Greek and Trojan characters. Achilles' anger at Agamemnon and its impact on the war is pivotal, but the narrative also explores themes of pride, heroism, and fate. The poem reflects on how individual decisions lead to broader events, making it a multifaceted story rather than solely focusing on Achilles' wrath.

Achilles's rage as the driving force of the plot in The Iliad

Achilles's rage is the central driving force of the plot in The Iliad. His anger over Agamemnon's slight leads to his withdrawal from battle, which shifts the war's dynamics. This rage propels the narrative forward, influencing key events, including Patroclus's death and Achilles's eventual return to combat, culminating in his confrontation with Hector.

Describe Achilles' anger in the Iliad.

The rage of Achilles is a central theme in the Iliad. Homer begins the story by asking the muse to tell him the story--not of the Trojan War--but of Achilles' rage. Homer blames Achilles for the loss of countless Greek lives, and this blame is justified.

In Homer's Iliad, what conflicting feelings does Achilles experience after withdrawing from battle?

Achilles is faced with conflicting feelings of honour and patriotism as a result of his decision to withdraw from battle. He feels that he must either kill Agamemnon or sit by while others fight, but in the end, he compromises by allowing Patroclus to wear his armour into battle.

How does the Achilles-Agamemnon conflict hinder the Greeks' goals and could it have been avoided?

Although Achilles has a legitimate grievance, his pride prevents him from being satisfied. He expects to be able to dictate terms to Agamemnon.

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