Greek Code Of Heroism In The Iliad

Achilles, one of the quintessential Greek heroes, embodies the moral dilemma of what constitutes as good. He is a highly celebrated man, but his exaltation could strictly be attributed to just his prowess at warfare. Throughout the Iliad, Homer has consistently stressed the veneration that just the mere presence of Achilles demands from those around him by giving him the major moments of the battle. Additionally, his strength is highlighted at a myriad of instances in the epic by comparing practically every monumental feat of arms or a pitiless attack to the absent hero.
Achilles is idolized for his heroic traits, which are used synonymously with masculine characteristics like bravado and the ability to kill relentlessly. This correlates with the Greek code of heroism which is linked to a strictly masculine idea of bravery. However, Achilles wantonly exploits the fact that heroism brings with it unrestrained power. This is illustrated in various instances throughout the epic. One example of this is when Achilles decides to drown …show more content…
His avarice for kleos, or glory, prevents him from acting rationally. Maybe Homer did not intend on portraying him as the heroic figure that we have come to view him as today, but instead, he tried to call attention to the fact that Achilles is a figure who is symbolic of the disaster that accompanies unrestrained power, and could hence be understood as a precautionary tale instead. His debauched character is further demonstrated by the fact that when he does finally decide to join in the battle, it is not done out of a sense of duty to the Danaans but rather out of vengeance. His aim was not to defend his fellow countrymen, but rather to make the Trojans pay for killing his beloved friend, Patrokolos. This furthermore demonstrates his indifference towards redundant bloodshed and his pusillanimous stance regarding the