Akhilleus’s Pride The Iliad is a classic story of a Greek warrior, named Akhilleus, whose anger causes many soldiers to die during the Trojan War. When Akhilleus becomes angry, there seems to be nothing that can stop him from totally destroying his enemy. While many consider anger to be the primary factor in motivating Akhilleus, the main reason Akhilleus acts the way he does is because he is extremely self-centered. Initially, Akhilleus lets his pride control him when King Agamemnon takes his prize possession, Bris eis, away from him. Akhilleus begins to sulk and declares he will take his army and go home. Feeling dishonored, Akhilleus goes to his mother, Thetis, and requests her to go to Zeus and petition his assistance in dealing with Agamemnon.
Akhilleus states to his mother, “If he will take the Trojan side and roll the Akhaians back to the water’s edge, back on the ships with slaughter! All the troops may savior what their king has won for them, and he may know his madness, what he lost when he dishonored me, peerless among Akhaians (1, pp 25).” The actions Akhilleus takes to get back at Agamemnon shows Akhilleus is only thinking of his own self-interest. His actions not only hurt Agamemnon but also put the lives of many of his fellow soldiers in danger. Akhilleus continues to let his ego control his actions even after his best friend Patroklos urges him to forget his hurt and rejoin the fight against the advancing Trojan forces. After Akhilleus refuses this request, Patroklos offers to put on Akhilleus’ armor to reenergize the Akhaians forces and hopefully trick the Trojans into believing that Akhilleus has reentered the fight. Akhilleus agrees to let Patroklos wear his armor and pretend to be him.
The Essay on Warriors Trojan Or Achaean Hero Akhilleus Agamemnon
Where are the Heroes As we read Homers epic tale of war, death, and enthralling characters, we find great warriors each on a different pathway. Looking closer at three of these characters, Akhilleus, Agamemnon, and Hektor, we find that each of these warriors displays many heroic qualities and deeds, yet none ever achieves becoming a true hero. What does it mean to achieve the status of a true hero ...
Akhilleus proves he really is only thinking of himself when he tells Patroklos before he goes to fight on his behalf, “you ” ll win great honor for me, and glory among Da naans; then they ” ll send me back my lovely girl, with bright new gifts as well (xvi, pg 380).” After Patroklos is killed by the Trojan leader, Hektor, Akhilleus transfers his attention from Agamemnon to Hector and returns to the battle to avenge his friend’s death. Akhilleus tracks down Hektor and mortally wounds him. As Hektor lies dying he pleads to Akhilleus to not let the dogs feed on his dead body. Instead of honoring a dying man’s request, Akhilleus arrogantly responds by saying, “Would god my passion drove me to slaughter you… you ” ve caused such agony to me! No man exists who could defend you from the carrion pack (xiv, pp 526).” Throughout the story, Akhilleus proves he is always thinking of himself first.
All of Akhilleus actions show he does not mind sacrificing his fellow soldiers and best friend, as long as he accomplishes the revenge he seeks against his enemies. No man could let innocent blood spill so willingly, unless he has an air of conceit.
