Why Did Achilles Withdraw Himself From the War?
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, to various questions of The Iliad.
Answer
Why did Achilles withdraw himself from the war? And What led Achilles to come back to the Trojan War?
In “The Iliad” (762 BCE), Homer (c. 800 BCE – c. 701 BCE) represents Achilles as a central figure. His decision to leave the war and later return changes everything. His actions shape the course of the Trojan War. His decision to withdraw from the battle and later rejoin it stems from personal conflicts and deep emotions.
Insult by Agamemnon: Achilles, the greatest Greek warrior, withdraws from the war because of a personal insult by Agamemnon. Agamemnon is the leader of the Achaeans. Agamemnon takes away Briseis, who was Achilles’s war prize. This act makes Achilles feel dishonoured and disrespected. So he Achilles says,
I hate like the gates of Hades
the man who says one thing and hides another inside him.
Death of Patroclus: Achilles remains away from the battlefield until tragedy strikes him personally. His dear friend, Patroclus, is killed by Hector while wearing Achilles’ armour. Overcome with grief, Achilles is filled with rage and guilt. This loss drives Achilles to seek revenge. This makes his return to battle.
Glory and Honor: Achilles’ return is also motivated by his desire for eternal glory. Although he knows he is fated to die if he continues fighting, he chooses to pursue his destiny. He says,
If I stay here…my glory will live forever.
Achilles is determined to face Hector and reclaim his honour.
Achilles’ journey in The Iliad revolves around pride, grief, and the pursuit of glory. This led to his critical return to the Trojan War.