The Iliad : Literary devices

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.

Literary devices

Figures of Speech

Metaphor: Definition: When one thing is directly compared to another without using like or as. Example: Achilles is repeatedly called a “lion” or a “blazing fire.” Explanation: Achilles is a man, but through metaphor, he is compared to terrifying strength and destructive fire. This shows that his rage and power go beyond human limits, making him seem like a force of nature. It expresses Greek heroism and the horrors of war through metaphor.
Irony: Definition: Irony occurs when the opposite of what is expected happens.
Example: Hector thought he would save Troy, but he died alone outside the city gates.
Explanation: The irony lies in the fact that the hero who gave everything for his family, city, and country could not save either himself or Troy. Likewise, Achilles killed Hector for revenge, knowing it would also seal his own death. This irony shows that while war brings glory, in the end, death and destruction are the ultimate truths.
Symbolism: Definition: When an object, character, or place conveys a deeper meaning or idea.

The Rage of Achilles: The driving force of the war. Symbol of the destructive side of human emotions.
The Shield of Achilles: Forged by Hephaestus, the shield is more than a weapon—it is a symbol of the world. It depicted war, peace, farming, and dancing. It represents the wholeness of human life and the inevitability of fate.
Dragging Hector’s Body: Symbol of dishonor and revenge. Shows Achilles’s loss of humanity in his rage.
The Walls of Troy: Symbol of human dreams and security, but ultimately destroyed by fate.
The Death of Patroclus: Symbol of heroism and sacrifice, and the turning point that transforms Achilles.
Intervention of the Gods: Symbol of fate in human life. Men fight, but the gods decide destiny.
Achilles: Symbol of human heroism and rage. He seeks glory, but brings on his own death.
Hector: Symbol of duty, family love, and sacrifice. He accepts death to defend his city.
Priam: Symbol of a father’s love and human appeal. He bravely begs his enemy to return his son’s body.
Helen: Symbol of beauty and destruction. She is the cause of both the war and the bloodshed.

Moral Lessons from The Iliad