Unit 3: Study Questions Flashcards
Why does Agamemnon give up his concubine, Chryseis?
He is forced to return Chryseis to end a plague sent by Apollo after her father, a priest, prays for divine intervention.
Why does Achilleus feel that his honour has been slighted by Agamemnon?
Agamemnon takes Briseis from Achilleus as compensation for losing Chryseis, dishonoring him publicly.
How are the gods and goddesses portrayed in this book?
They are powerful but petty, intervening in mortal affairs based on favoritism, grudges, and personal rivalries.
What is Helen like, and what is the Trojans’ attitude toward her?
Helen is regretful and self-aware but feels powerless. The Trojans blame Paris for the war more than Helen, but she remains a symbol of the conflict.
Why do the gods rescue Paris from his duel with Menelaos? How does each side react?
Aphrodite saves Paris to protect her favorite, frustrating the Greeks, while the Trojans see it as divine will.
How does Paris compare with the other heroes of The Iliad?
He is physically attractive but cowardly, avoiding direct combat and relying on the gods for protection.
What is the Trojans’ attitude toward the war Paris brought to their gates?
Many resent him and see the war as unnecessary, but they fight to protect their city and honor.
How is Paris portrayed?
He is seen as vain, selfish, and lacking the warrior spirit of other heroes.
How is Helen portrayed?
She is conflicted, ashamed, and aware of the suffering caused by her actions, yet unable to change her fate.
How is Paris’ brother Hektor portrayed?
Hektor is noble, dutiful, and deeply committed to defending Troy, contrasting sharply with Paris’ weakness.
What does Agamemnon offer Achilleus?
He offers great wealth, marriage to one of his daughters, and the return of Briseis to entice him back to battle.
How has Agamemnon’s attitude changed from Book One?
He is now more conciliatory, admitting his mistake and offering gifts to mend relations with Achilleus.
How does Odysseus try to sway Achilleus?
He appeals to honor, duty, and the rewards of battle, emphasizing Agamemnon’s generous offer.
How does Phoenix try to persuade Achilleus?
He gives a fatherly speech about loyalty, duty, and the tragic consequences of excessive pride.
What is the approach of Aias (Ajax)?
He speaks bluntly, shaming Achilleus by calling his refusal to fight stubborn and selfish.
What are the signs that Achilleus is beginning to reflect on the heroic code and his fellow Greeks?
He still refuses to fight but starts to question his isolation and expresses some concern for his comrades.
Who is the target of Achilleus’ anger before sending Patroklos into battle?
He shifts his anger from Agamemnon to the Trojans, especially Hektor, as they threaten the Greek forces.
How does this compare with what he said about anger in Book Nine?
In Book Nine, his anger was personal and directed at Agamemnon, but now it turns outward against the enemy.
What finally motivates Achilleus to fight?
The death of Patroklos pushes him into action, seeking revenge against Hektor.
How does Patroklos die?
Apollo strikes him, weakening him, allowing Hektor to finish him off. Apollo’s role is divine interference, while Hektor claims the final blow.
