Reading Notes: Homer's Iliad, Part A

How the War with Troy Began

• The writing style seems very appropriate for the stories being told. It helps me insert myself deeper into the story while reading. Helen seems to be indecisive when it comes to picking a partner. It seems as though she may have been taken by Priam, but she may have chosen to go with him.

The Quarrel

• So far, I like Achilles. He seems to want what is truly right in the situation, rather than the “spoils” as does King Agamemnon. Achilles has long yellow hair and a rage justice. Achilles is courageous to stand up against King Agamemnon even though the king has so much power.

What Thetis Did for Her Son

(Thetis Consoling Achilles)
Wikipedia Commons

• I am surprised Zeus was so willing to help Thetis and Achilles against the Greeks, so King Agamemnon will regret treating Achilles as he did. Zeus must really like Thetis, which does not make Hera very happy. The tension was released by a crippled god whom the other gods found amusing. They have terrible humor to laugh at him just because he was breathing heavily. The use of a dream to manipulate the mind of King Agamemnon was a creative thought. Zeus used Agamemnon’s faith in Nestor against him, which was quite deceitful.

Hector and Andromache

• Paris admitted to being a coward with the battle at hand. Hector is becoming one of my favorites as well. He is very courageous (almost to a fault). He fights in her name, so that she can be proud of who he is when people talk of his triumphs. Hector is a strong believer is fate.

The Embassy to Achilles

• Achilles decided that fame was not as important as life. Maybe I would let Achilles go help Hector because I like both of the characters as opposed to pitting them against one another.

Deeds and Death of Patroclus

• They mention that Achilles has a spear, which non but him can wield, but I think it would be better as a sword or bow. Patroclus wants to pose as Achilles and then he killed Sarpedon (one of their bravest warriors). Patroclus let the power go to his head, which ultimately became his downfall. Apollo intervenes in the war a lot more than I would have expected.

Bibliography: Homer's Iliad retold by A. J. Church