Homer’s Iliad is an ancient epic tale of Greek gods, mythical creatures, and larger-than-life heroes. It is a collection of legends and events that documents a thousand-year-old oral tradition of ancient storytelling extinct today. Throughout the epic, there is a central theme that centers on
the ideas of heroism, honor, pride, revolving around a host of bickering gods and warring states. It begins when Paris, a handsome noble prince, kidnaps Helen, the most beautiful women and wife of one of the Achaian kings, Menelaos. The Achaians swear revenge and the return of Helen, laying siege to Troy. Achilles, one of the bravest warriors of the Achaians is a central figure in the epic. His legendary valor and prowess are well known among the Achaians and throughout the ancient Greece. The Achaian king wants Achilles to support him in battle against Troy, but the brave and powerful warriors refuses because he is wronged by the king and because the king is as dishonorable as his enemy. Yet, Achilles faces a dilemma that conflicts the tenets of the heroic code. He refuses blind loyalty to a dishonorable king, but in doing so, he also dishonors his brothers in arms by abandoning them when they need him most. He also knows he will die at this battle, if he decides to step in.
This paper examines some of the important differences between the three characters in the Iliad and the Odyssey. It discusses their relationships with their families and loved ones, the way that they lead their armies, as well as their view of the gods.
The following essay displays examples of the major points of Otto Rank's thoughts of what a hero should be. Achilles is thrown into the picture to reinforce Rank's philosophy.
