Critically comment on the duel between Paris and Menelaus.
The Iliad is a notable literary work by Homer. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Iliad.
Answer
Critically comment on the duel between Paris and Menelaus. [NU: 2019, 22] ★★★
Homer (c. 800-701 BCE) presents many battles and duels in his epic “The Iliad” (762 BCE). The duel between Paris and Menelaus is very important. It was meant to end the war, but it shows both fate and trickery.
The Challenge: The war begins because Paris takes Helen from Menelaus. To avoid more blood, both sides agree on a duel. Paris first offers to fight in single combat. Menelaus accepts the challenge with strong anger. Both sides agree that the winner will keep Helen. This shows hope for peace.
Weakness of Paris: Paris proves weak in the duel with Menelaus. Menelaus is stronger and nearly kills him. Paris is saved only by the goddess Aphrodite. She takes him away from danger. This shows Paris as cowardly and dependent on divine help.
Failure of The Oath: The Greeks and Trojans had sworn an oath. They promised to accept the result of the duel. But when Paris is rescued, the oath is broken. Fighting begins again with more cruelty. This shows weakness of human promises.
Role of the Gods: The duel shows how gods control human fate. Aphrodite saves Paris and takes him to Helen. This divine act makes the duel useless. It also proves how much the gods interfere in war.
To conclusion, The duel between Paris and Menelaus shows human weakness and divine control. Paris fails as a hero, but the gods protect him. Homer uses the duel to reveal both fate and human dishonor.