In Homer’s epic novel The Iliad, translated by Ian Johnston, Achilles represents a true hero by being an independent, strong-willed warrior. Achilles, son of Peleus and Thetis, is a noble demigod fighting alongside the Greeks and their leader Agamemnon in the Trojan War. He illustrates heroism by being a leader, ability to endure hardships, and by being true to himself. When Agamemnon refuses to return war prisoner, Chryseis to her father, the Greeks face Apollo’s wrath for nine days. On the tenth day Achilles calls for an assembly and persuades him to ask “a man who might say why Apollo is so angry, whether he faults our prayers and offerings, whether somehow he’ll welcome sacrificial smoke … and release us from this plague” (60-62,64). Achilles
