#fagles

Not surprisingly many heroes in Greek literature are demi-gods and in the Iliad there is no end of them. So many of them take on an aspect of their parents persona. What is unique is the two pivotal demi-gods are at cross-points in their self analysis.

The editor of this edition (Robert Fagles) points out that by the time the war starts Helen is done being a narcissist while Achilles is beginning his full swing. It is an interesting point. However if still don’t see how an aware Helen doesn’t stop the war by stepping back to her husband. I still can’t like her.

However the editor points out something else I never really looked at before which is that while Achilles is raging in his wounded pride, he never loses sight of who to blame. He doesn’t kill the messenger. He knows that it Agamemnon who has no honor. The editor indicates that Achilles honor is always his motivation but for me personally I see a great deal more pride then honor. He believes himself better by his grandeur in battle but never acknowledges that his prowess is a cheat. First in his birth to a nymph, second his protection from Styx, and finally third from the god-made armor brought to him.

Honor should not let a real warrior cry to his mother to punish the people were mean to him. He shouldn’t watch men die for his “injury” and he shouldn’t punish another for his own guilt as he did Hector. I acknowledge Fagles’ expertise but I’m not convinced of the honor element. What I do agree with is that the story arch brought about by Priam’s night visit does return Achilles to hero status to me.

In that moment he remembers honor, what civilized and a truly great man looks like. It his redeeming act and it is too late to undo his desecration. I still struggle with the importance of sons/children for men in that society and Achilles had none. I’m working on that in my head.