Questions and Answers
What does the opening lines of 'The Iliad' describe?
The rage of Peleus' son Achilles and the ferocity of the Trojan War.
What does Achilles prefer over remaining in Troy dishonored?
What does Achilles compare submission to?
The god of death.
Who is the embassy that Achilles welcomes in Book 9?
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What does Achilles accuse Agamemnon of being?
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Achilles believes that honor is the same for both the brave and the coward in war.
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What does Thetis remind Achilles of regarding Achaea's suffering?
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What does Achilles wish could vanish from the lives of men and gods?
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What unique characteristic is used to describe Achilles as he runs towards Troy?
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What animal is used to describe Achilles' speed in pursuing Hector?
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What does Achilles vow to do with Hector's body?
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What does Achilles recognize in King Priam when he comes to beg for Hector's body?
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What does Achilles ask Patroclus' ghost not to feel anger about?
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Study Notes
Overview of Achilles in The Iliad
- Achilles represents the greatest Greek warrior and experiences intense rage throughout the narrative, driving much of the plot.
- The epic begins with a call to the Muse to sing of Achilles' wrath, setting a tone of conflict and heroism.
Key Quotes and Context
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'Rage - Goddess sing the rage of Peleus' son Achilles'
Addresses Achilles' fierce emotions, which are pivotal in the Trojan War. -
'No more now - back I go to Phthia. Better that way by far...'
Reflects Achilles' pride and frustration with Agamemnon's actions, particularly the threat to take Briseis, highlighting themes of honor and dishonor. -
'Let him submit to me!...'
Demonstrates Agamemnon's unwillingness to resolve his conflict with Achilles without asserting his authority, revealing the struggle for power among leaders. -
'Welcome! Look, dear friends have come our way...'
Achilles shows a welcoming demeanor toward Odysseus and others sent by Agamemnon, indicating complexities in his relationships despite his anger. -
'I hate that man like the very Gates of Death...'
Achilles articulates a profound disdain for Agamemnon's perceived deceitfulness, emphasizing betrayal and emotional turmoil. -
'One and the same lot for the man who hangs back...'
A philosophical reflection on heroism, asserting that both the brave and the coward meet the same fate in death, questioning the value of glory in war.
Themes of Loss and Grief
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'My child - why in tears? What sorrow has touched your heart?'
Thetis asks Achilles about his grief over Patroclus’ death, illustrating the personal costs of war and the impact of fate. -
'If only strife could die from the lives of gods and men...'
Achilles expresses a desire for peace, revealing the destructive nature of rage and the longing for a world without conflict.
Imagery and Similes
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'And old King Priam was first to see him coming...'
Describes Achilles' approach as radiant yet foreboding, using cosmic imagery to highlight his formidable presence in battle. -
'Achilles went for him, fast, sure of his speed as the wild mountain hawk...'
A vivid comparison emphasizes speed and determination as Achilles chases Hector, illustrating his warrior prowess.
Moments of Humanity
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'Beg no more, you fawning dog...'
Achilles' brutal rejection of Hector's plea underscores the depth of animosity formed from personal loss and rivalry. -
'Then he'd yoke his racing team to the chariot-harness...'
Showcases Achilles’ ruthless vengeance after killing Hector, emphasizing themes of honor and revenge in Greek warfare. -
'Poor man, how much you've borne...'
In a moment of compassion, Achilles acknowledges Priam’s suffering, showcasing a fleeting understanding of shared human experience and grief. -
'Feel no anger at me, Patroclus...'
As Achilles prepares to return Hector’s body, he seeks reconciliation with the memory of Patroclus, illustrating transformation through grief and loss.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Achilles' key quotes from Homer's The Iliad. This quiz features flashcards that highlight important lines and their meanings from Book 1. Discover the depth of Achilles' character and his pivotal role in the Trojan War.
