Achilles Ideal In The Iliad

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The Homeric Ideal is a prevalent theme throughout Greek literature as demonstrated by Achilles and Hector in Homer’s The Iliad. These characters are the very definition of the Homeric Ideal because they exemplify the ideal’s true meaning of acting in a manner by which the potential of a person is reached. To extrapolate, a character’s potential is reached through proficiency and confidence in their actions. Furthermore, the Homeric Ideal also incorporates the idea of mutual respect, best demonstrated through impartial interactions between characters. In Homer’s The Iliad, the clearest example of the Homeric ideal is seen through the Achaean epic hero, Achilles. In The Iliad, Homer presents Achilles in the excerpt:
“Then Achilles, noble and …show more content…

In addition, Achilles is also acting in a manner of that demonstrates the potential of his character through his demand of the return of Chryses’ daughter to appease Apollo. Through this demand, Achilles is acting in a selfless manner as the satisfaction of Apollo will bring about the end of the pestilence that is affecting the Achaean army. Moreover, Achilles also consolidates the idea of mutual respect through the civility in his language found by offering an incentive to Agamemnon if Chryses’ daughter is returned. With regards to the incentive, Achilles offers Agamemnon additional wealth in addition to the promise that the Achaeans will be able take Troy with the blessing of Zeus. Altogether, Achilles’ is an embodiment of the Homeric Ideal by reaching his personal potential through his tenacity and selfless underlying intentions. Another character in Homer’s The Iliad who demonstrates the Homeric Ideal is the most exemplary soldier in the Trojan army, Hector. The clearest example of Hector as an embodiment of the Homeric Ideal is illustrated in the

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