Socrates
Homer's Iliad is a tragic account of the Trojan War based around the rage of Achilles son of Peleus against Agamemnon the King of Mycenae. Although the relationship between these two characters is the main one in the work, there are many others that are found. The relationship between the two men who start the war, Paris and Menelaus is one of hate and spite for one another. Hector, the strongest of the Trojan warriors, and Achilles, the champion of the Argives, have a similar relationship. The relationship between Paris and Hector, brothers and princes of Troy, is not as clear cut as the rest. At first glance, the reader might feel that the two brothers are very different, and that they have a dislike for one another. Upon deeper reading, however, it is found that the two men are similar in many ways. The reader also sees a certain sympathy that is found between them.The first confrontation between these two men in the work involves Hector severely scolding Paris for trying to back out from Menelaus' challenge (3:42-92). Hector says many harsh things to his brother and is finally able to persuade him to step up to the challenge. Upon first glance, it may seem to the reader that Hector truly hated his brothe
The reader sees a similar string of insults upon Hector's return to Troy (6:382-406). Hector criticizes Paris for remaining with Helen, preferring lovemaking to fighting. His insults are enough to cause Paris to rejoin the battle. In this confrontation, Hector is rationalizing with Paris. He tells him that is it disgraceful to remain on the sidelines as "your [Paris'] people dying around the city, the steep walls, dying in arms-and all for you" (6:385-386). By Paris rejoining the war, his honor can be restored and it can give a morale boost to the troops. Therefore Hector tries to help his brother, rather than hurt him. This is also obvious in that he never lays a hand on his brother, despite his greater strength and the incentive to do so. Hector shows mercy and care for Paris, and only directs frustrated words towards him to encourage his spirit. Perhaps the most alarming testimony to Hector's love for his brother is also in the same section of the poem. Hector proclaims his brother a great fighter, and describes his sadness when other's insult him (6:620-631). Hector dialogue with Paris in these lines is that of sympathy, and brotherly love. Hector's tone is kind, and the two men leave to fight as great warriors and loving brothers. r specifically when
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 854
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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