Transformations in the Characters of ‘The Iliad’ by Homer: A Focus on Achilleus

In the epic poem ‘The Iliad’ by the ancient Greek poet Homer, characters undergo profound changes that are pivotal to the narrative. One of the most transformative characters is Achilleus, a powerful warrior whose journey is marked by his evolving emotions, actions, and moral compass. This essay delves into the notable changes in Achilleus throughout the epic, examining how these changes reflect the broader themes of honor, revenge, and human nature.

The Initial Glorification and Pride of Achilleus

At the beginning of the narrative, Achilleus is portrayed as a glorified warrior who takes great pleasure in war and in wielding his immense power. His initial character is marked by pride, courage, and a desire for glory. This is evident in the opening lines, where he declares his intention to fight for the Greeks and to win honor for himself. His primary motivation is the desire for fame and recognition, reflecting a culture where valor and heroism are highly valued.

The Turning Point: Menelaus and Britia

The character of Achilleus undergoes a significant shift when Menelaus, the brother of Helenus, abducts Helen (also known as Britia), a woman Achilleus has deemed his rightful prize. This act by Menelaus crosses a boundary that Achilleus deems unacceptable, and it sparks intense feelings of rage and injustice within him. Achilleus is deeply affected by this event, and his pride is hurt. This incident sets in motion a chain of events that nearly cause the entire Greek army to lose the war. His strong emotion and resultant actions highlight the fragile balance between personal honor and the collective good.

The Impact of His Friend’s Death

The death of his best friend Patroclus marks a turning point for Achilleus. Initially, he is not involved in the war, having withdrawn in anger. However, when Patroclus is killed by Hector, Achilleus is consumed by a cold fury. He believes that the person who killed his friend should be stopped, and he dedicates himself to avenging Patroclus. This change in character is not just about revenging a friend, but also a shift in Achilleus’s understanding of his role as a leader and his commitment to his comrades. His transition from a lonely, self-indulgent warrior to a leader who fights for the cause rather than for personal glory is a powerful transformation.

The Redemption and Complex Resurgence of Achilleus

The final change in Achilleus’s character occurs when he takes the field against Hector. He is motivated not just by vengeance but also by a deeper sense of justice. Hector, the leader of the Trojans, has killed Patroclus, and this provokes a primal rage in Achilleus, driving him to confront Hector individually. It is in this duel that Achilleus demonstrates both his skill and his nobility. When Hector pleads for mercy and Akhilleus kills him, it marks a moment of complex emotional resolution. This scene shows Achilleus’s ability to transcend personal vendetta and make a moral decision that respects both honor and the sanctity of life.

The Funeral Rite and Reflection

The climax of Achilleus’s transformation comes when he agrees to accept the ransom for Hector’s body. This act shows a moral maturity and a capacity for compassion. By allowing Hector’s father to ransom his son’s body, Achilleus demonstrates a deeper understanding of the value of human life, even in the context of war. This is a profound moment that reflects the broader theme of the poem: the complexity of human emotions and the struggle between justice and mercy.

Conclusion

The character of Achilleus in ‘The Iliad’ undergoes several notable transformations that are central to the epic’s narrative. From a proud and self-indulgent warrior to a nuanced figure capable of both extreme rage and profound compassion, Achilleus’s journey is a testament to the complexity of human nature. Through his experiences, we see a multifaceted character who grapples with the most primal and moral questions of humanity. His story is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of Greek mythology to explore the depths of the human soul.

Keywords: Achilleus, The Iliad, character development, Greek mythology, Homer