The Character of Achilles in Homers Illiad Essay

For centuries now, the character of Achilleus, the great Achaean warrior, has been a subject of major debate among those studying Homers classic epic The Iliad. Ironically, though there is very little physical description of Achilleus in The Iliad, he is perhaps the most thoroughly developed character in the epic. It seems as though Achilleus has a tendency to make a very strong impression on the reader, and often a bad one at that. Those who dislike Achilleus in particular attack his overpowering sense of personal pride, or hubris, in Greek terminology, as demonstrated fully in his actions thought the epic. However, those who sympathize with him are able to see the characters nobility, even despite his stubborn tendencies. He is not†¦show more content†¦Zeus obliges, and the Achaean forces are slaughtered left and right. Then, when Agamemnon realizes his mistake and apologizes, saying I was mad, I myself will not deny it (9.116) and makes a genuine plea to Achilleus to save the Achaean troops, Achilleus does not listen. Agamemnon offers him land, gold, Briseis returned, and his own daughters hand in marriage, and Achilleus still refuses to help. He is content to continue nursing his wounded ego as his friends are being killed by the thousands. Even as the war rages on, and Achilleus actually wants to reenter the battle, his obstinate pride refuses to let him do so unless his own safety is threatened by the fighting. As he recounts, Still I said I would not give over my anger until that time came / when the fighting with all it clamor came to my own ships (16.62-3). Even arguing that a reader cannot understand Achilleus because of cultural differences does not justify him at this point. The manner in which Achilleus deals with this particular situation also brings to light another of his character flaws- a definite tendency towards childishness and immaturity. This is especially apparent in his complete refusal to accept Agamemnons apology. He has no sense of perspective and cannot see the larger picture of what he is doing to all his friends. Odysseus himself accuses Achilleus of being childish and closed-minded, saying Fail us now? What grief it will be to you / through all the years toShow MoreRelatedThe Fury of Achiles in Homers Illiad and Ovids Metamorphoses1066 Words   |  4 PagesAchilles Through the stories in both Homers Illiad and Ovids Metamorphoses one can see the power and the fury of Achilles, one greatest Greek warriors in the Trojan War. In Homers Illiad, Homer illustrates the battle between Achilles Hector, who was the Prince of Troy. In Ovids Metamorphoses, Ovid illustrates the battle between Achilles and Cycnus, who is the son of Neptune. 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