At the conclusion of reading all twenty four books in The Iliad, it is clear that its purpose serves as far more than just a source of entertainment to those who dive into it. Rather, Homer intends to tell a story that allows one to think deeply about the values that each of the characters uncover through the progression of the epic. Nine years into the Trojan War, it becomes clear that the everlasting battle plays an essential role in revealing the true nature of the characters, highlighting the influential powers of the gods, and proving the relevance of fate. In short, war is everything in the epic and it truly defines The Iliad as a whole in addition to the identity of the characters. Homer uses the war as an umbrella to emphasize the ancient Greek traditions through the use of symbolic references that are recognized with true prevalence during the 8th century BC.
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From the events that arise from battle to details as minute as the warrior’s outfit, there is a great deal of importance associated with all aspects of the war and it is shown immensely through semiotic meaning. Armor is amongst one of the most consequential symbols in the epic because it goes beyond the expectation of protection. In addition, the armor contains a mind of its own and even demonstrates betrayal when necessary. “The rest of his flesh seemed all encased in armor,/ burnished, brazen—Achilles’ armor that Hector stripped/ from strong Patroclus when he killed him—true,” (Homer 22.379-381). Achilles armor allows him to succeed as a warrior regardless of whether he is wearing. Through every battle, Achilles receives no deception from his armor. However, the moment Hector wears it, the armor betrays him and practically brings him towards death. Achilles armor aids in further intensifying the war by symbolizing an immense source of loyalty and protection towards the deserving
From the events that arise from battle to details as minute as the warrior’s outfit, there is a great deal of importance associated with all aspects of the war and it is shown immensely through semiotic meaning. Armor is amongst one of the most consequential symbols in the epic because it goes beyond the expectation of protection. In addition, the armor contains a mind of its own and even demonstrates betrayal when necessary. “The rest of his flesh seemed all encased in armor,/ burnished, brazen—Achilles’ armor that Hector stripped/ from strong Patroclus when he killed him—true,” (Homer 22.379-381). Achilles armor allows him to succeed as a warrior regardless of whether he is wearing. Through every battle, Achilles receives no deception from his armor. However, the moment Hector wears it, the armor betrays him and practically brings him towards death. Achilles armor aids in further intensifying the war by symbolizing an immense source of loyalty and protection towards the deserving