Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad

Type :

Presentation

Pages :

3 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

05/03/2007

Category :

Philosophy & literature

Sub category :

Literature

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Summary :

Introduction
The difference between Achilles and Hektor
The diversity of the reasons for the actions they take
The heroes fated to die
Conclusion

Abstract

homer's epic poem, The iliad, creates two very distinct heroic figures: Achilles and Hektor. These men come from different backgrounds and have different reasons for fighting in the Trojan War; Achilles fights for honor, whereas Hektor fights to defend his city, and yet both know that if they fight, they are fated to die. Because of their differing motives for engaging in warfare, both characters have distinct traits and factors that shape their views of honor and their fates. Achilles places personal honor above the group; he believes that if he chooses to fight and to die in this war, it will be on his own terms. For Achilles, honor and anger drive most of his actions. However, Hektor fights to protect his people, and to defend his city's honor; Hektor, in general, focuses more on the group and is more concerned with the well-being of his people than with his own safety. Nevertheless, despite their many differences, The iliad proves that neither of these men are lesser or greater heroes, and that none of their traits are absolute: at times Achilles is selfless and vulnerable, whereas Hektor can be self-centered and individualistic. homer uses these complex characters to explore heroic figures and to illustrate that there is not one archetype for a hero.