The Subject of “The Iliad” is the Wrath of Achilles”

Answer

“The subject of The Iliad is the wrath of Achilles.” Discuss.[NU: 2012, 17, 19] ★★★ Or, what is the subject of “The Iliad” – Discuss.

Homer’s (c. 800 BCE – c. 701 BCE) “The Iliad” (762 BCE) is one of the oldest and greatest epic poems in world literature. It deals with a short period of the Trojan War. The main theme of this poem is the wrath of Achilles. The poet shows how his anger brings great suffering for both the Greeks and Trojans. The whole epic moves around his rage, pride, grief, and final change of heart.

The Source of Achilles’ Wrath: Achilles becomes very angry when Agamemnon takes away Briseis. Briseis is a woman who was his prize. Agamemnon’s action hurts Achilles’ pride and honor. Achilles feels insulted and refuses to fight. Homer says, 

“The rage of Achilles – sing it now, goddess.” 

Achilles’ anger is not just about losing Briseis; it’s about feeling disrespected as a warrior.

Prayer to Thetis: After the quarrel, Achilles prays to his mother Thetis. He asks her to speak with Zeus, the king of the gods. Achilles wants Zeus to give victory to the Trojans. His aim is to make the Greeks suffer without his help. This prayer shows how deep his wrath goes. The wrath here is not only against Agamemnon but also against the whole Greek army.

The Effects of Achilles’ Anger: When Achilles refuses to fight, the Greeks start losing battles. Hector and the Trojans to gain the upper hand. Many Greek soldiers die because Achilles is too angry to help. His stubbornness shows how one person’s pride can bring disaster to many. 

Death of Patroclus: The wrath of Achilles takes a new turn with the death of Patroclus. Patroclus, his close friend, goes to fight wearing his armor. He is killed by Hector, the prince of Troy. This loss shakes Achilles badly. His grief mixes with his wrath. Now he forgets his anger with Agamemnon. Instead, his