Trojan War in the Iliad, Essay

As the army is moving closer towards his position, he has fear about what the upcoming battle will bring. Yet, he sets these concerns aside in order to fulfill his duty as a warrior. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

While Achilles, is the complete opposite. An example of his selfish behavior occurred after he killed Hector. Instead, of leaving his body behind, he drags it around to show everyone in Troy his latest conquest. This is clearly, an example of him wanting to illustrate his own personal ambitions over everything else. In this aspect, one could argue that Achilles did not have any respect for Troy, the traditions of sacrifice / selflessness and only fought for his own glorification over everything else. The fact that Hector defended these larger ideals is what makes him more admirable than Achilles. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

The ancient Greeks had two different concepts of heroism. The most notable include: an individual who performed some great deed when they were alive and became a deity based upon these actions.At the same time, someone could be considered to be a hero if they are ready to give their life in order to obtain immortal glory. In this aspect, the ancient Greeks accepted the fact that Achilles was willing to give his life in support of Greece's honor. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

This is because Helen was taken from Menelaus by Paris after both nations had agreed to end long running disputes. While this was occurring, Paris came to Greece and did not show any kind of respect for it by engaging in these kinds of actions before he left. This is a symbol of how he did not care about the Greeks, their traditions or what they represent. In this aspect, Achilles is considered to be a hero, because he was putting his life on the line in order to defend the honor and integrity of Greece. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

References

Harris, S.….....