9/3 Iliad (#1b)

In homer’s “The Iliad” character qualities of the gods and humans are well portrayed. The differences in character qualities between the two are slight.

Just because the gods are immortal does not mean that they are moral or all knowing.

An example is when “all the gods looked on” acting as an audience and humans acted as athletes in a competition (line 189). As Achilles chases after Hector it is described as a race “champion horses wheeling round the course” (line 184). Zeus debates aloud while watching Achilles chased down Hector to kill him, wondering if he should intervene and save Hector. Zeus explains Hector burnt “many an ox’s thigh” to Zeus in worship, but it is not enough for Zeus to decide to safe Hector (line 193). After being convinced by Athena, Zeus allows her to descend and help Achilles strike Hector down.

Athena has her own agenda, different then Zeus’ and Zeus does not choose to save a strong follower of his own. Zeus and Athena’s actions are two examples of the gods more human, selfish and immoral behavior.

An example of conflict between the gods and men can be seen between Apollo and Achilles. Apollo is a little smarter than Achilles tricking him by pulling his a tension away from the wall and the Trojans Achilles should have been fighting. Apollo waves Achilles mistake in his face by taunting “[d]on’t you care about fighting the Trojans anymore?” (line 14-15).

The only true difference humans have from the gods is there mortality. Death brings fear to humans and creates a dependence on the gods who have more power over death than the humans. An example of this was already mentioned, when Hector fled from Achilles, who is in fact half God himself. It is Hectors fear of death that makes him flee. All Hector can do is hope Pairs and Apollo save or at least avenge his death. For Hector knows his fate is not under his control.

Achilles is a very interesting character for his half god and half human status. Achilles was not simply a good or bad character but a complex person. He displayed characteristics like hatred and aggression. An example is when Hector requests that the champion of their battle would not defile the other’s body. Achilles replies in anger saying no such agreement could be made. After killing Hector, Achilles is able to soften his heart having completed his goal and finding vengeance. Here Achilles displays virtues like honor and respect. These virtues can be seen when Hector’s father comes to treat the body of Hector. Achilles not only returns the body, but returns it clothed in nice robes, also serveong Hector’s father of meal.