Write short notes on these topics: “Thetis,” “Zeus,” “Andromache.”

Answer

Write short notes on these topics: “Thetis,” “Zeus,” “Andromache.” [NU: 2017, 19, 22]

In The Iliad (762 BCE), Homer (c. 800 BCE – c. 701 BCE) illustrates not only warriors but also gods and families. Figures such as Thetis, Zeus, and Andromache are of great importance. Their actions and emotions give depth to the story of war.

Thetis: Thetis is a sea-goddess and mother of Achilles. She loves her son and wants to protect him. She prays to Zeus to punish the Greeks when Agamemnon insults Achilles. Later, she asks Hephaestus to make new armor for him. She knows Achilles will die young. Her sorrow shows human pain even in a goddess. Thetis is a symbol of motherly love. She plays a strong role in the destiny of Achilles and the progress of the war.

Zeus: Zeus is the king of the Olympian gods. He rules heaven and earth and balances power among the gods. He listens to Thetis and allows the Trojans to rise against the Greeks. Yet, even Zeus cannot change fate. He mourns for his son, Sarpedon, but accepts his destiny. He often quarrels with Hera about decisions in war. His will shapes battles, but he also acts with human feelings. Zeus represents authority, justice, and the limit of divine control before fate.

Andromache: Andromache is the loving wife of Hector. She represents family life and human sorrow. In a famous scene, she begs Hector not to return to battle. She says Hector is her father, mother, brother, and husband. She says:

“Hector, you are my everything now: my father, 

my mother, my brother – and my beloved husband.” 

Her grief shows the pain of women in war. After Hector’s death, she laments his fate. Through Andromache, Homer presents the cost of war on families. She adds deep emotion and realism to the epic. Her love makes Hector’s death more tragic.

Thetis, Zeus, and Andromache show love, power, and sorrow. They make the epic more