Achilles

Definition

Achilles is a central character in Greek mythology and the epic poem 'The Iliad,' known for his unparalleled strength and warrior prowess. He symbolizes the heroic ideal but also embodies complex themes of pride, wrath, and mortality, making him a vital figure in understanding the narrative and thematic structures of epic literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Achilles is famously known for his 'Achilles heel,' a term derived from his only vulnerability after being dipped in the River Styx by his mother.
2. His rage is a central theme in 'The Iliad,' driving the plot and resulting in significant consequences for both the Greeks and Trojans.
3. Achilles initially withdraws from battle due to a personal dispute with Agamemnon, showcasing the theme of honor and its conflicts among heroes.
4. The relationship between Achilles and Patroclus is pivotal, representing deep friendship and loyalty that transcends the battlefield.
5. Achilles ultimately meets his fate at the hands of Paris, with the assistance of Apollo, illustrating the role of destiny and divine intervention in epic narratives.

Review Questions

• How does Achilles' character illustrate the complexities of honor and pride within the context of 'The Iliad'?
  • Achilles embodies the tension between personal honor and collective responsibility throughout 'The Iliad.' His pride leads him to withdraw from battle after Agamemnon dishonors him, which results in dire consequences for the Greek army. This illustrates how personal grievances can affect broader outcomes in epic narratives, emphasizing that honor can be both a motivating force and a source of conflict among heroes.
• Discuss how Achilles’ relationship with Patroclus affects his actions and decisions throughout 'The Iliad.'
  • The bond between Achilles and Patroclus is central to understanding Achilles’ character development. Patroclus' death propels Achilles back into battle, fueled by rage and a desire for revenge against Hector. This relationship highlights themes of loyalty and loss, showing how personal connections deeply influence heroic actions and decisions within epic storytelling.
• Evaluate the impact of fate on Achilles' life as depicted in 'The Iliad,' particularly regarding his invincibility and eventual death.
  • Fate plays a crucial role in shaping Achilles' narrative arc in 'The Iliad.' Despite his invincibility and prowess on the battlefield, he is ultimately bound by fate to die young. His mother Thetis tries to alter his destiny but fails, reinforcing the idea that even the greatest heroes are subject to predetermined fates. This relationship between individual agency and fate exemplifies a key theme in epic literature, illustrating how destiny influences both personal choices and heroic outcomes.

Related terms

Hector:

The Trojan prince and greatest warrior of Troy, Hector serves as Achilles' primary adversary and represents the nobility of the Trojan cause.

Patroclus:

Achilles' closest companion whose death catalyzes Achilles' return to battle, highlighting themes of loyalty and grief in the narrative.

Thetis: Achilles' divine mother, who plays a role in the epic by influencing events through her relationships with gods and her pleas to Zeus.