In his epic poem The Iliad, Homer portrays Hektor in a seemingly different light compared to other prestigious Greek and Trojan warriors. Although a large majority of the poem focuses on the glories associated with the brutalities of war and the aspirations of the warriors for glory, the importance of Hector and Andromache’s farewell represents important aspects of life lost in the wake of the war. Elements related to the theme of goodbyes can be seen through other Greek poets, in particular Sappho, who provides one such descriptive narrative from an individual in her 31st fragment. The stark contrast Homer forms in his scene in the Iliad develops an uncertainty regarding his personal views on the Trojans, and ultimately challenges his audience
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However, it is unknown who exactly the two lovers are and what the exact context is of this goodbye. “But remember me, for surely you know how we worshipped you. If not, then I want to remind you of all the exquisite days we two shared; how you took garlands of violets and roses, and when by my side you tied them round you in soft bands, and you took many flowers and flung them in loops about your sapling throat, how the air was rich in a scent of queenly spices made of myrrh you rubbed smoothly on your limbs, and on soft beds, gently, your desire for delicate girls was satisfied and how there was no dance and no holy shrine we two did not share, no sound, no.” Unlike the Iliad, the audience is left to interpret who the two individuals are, but because of the rich language Sappho uses in the fragment, the uncertainty provides a purpose, similar to that of Homer, which forces the audience to reflect deeper and embrace their imagination. Could this quote be coming from a widow speaking at her husbands funeral, or a woman saying goodbye to a warrior before he heads into battle ? The language of the quote suggests that whatever the context may be, that the two individuals shared a deep, unique connection, and spent a tremendous amount of time together. What’s ultimately remarkable about this quote is that it is sounds like something Andromache could have
However, it is unknown who exactly the two lovers are and what the exact context is of this goodbye. “But remember me, for surely you know how we worshipped you. If not, then I want to remind you of all the exquisite days we two shared; how you took garlands of violets and roses, and when by my side you tied them round you in soft bands, and you took many flowers and flung them in loops about your sapling throat, how the air was rich in a scent of queenly spices made of myrrh you rubbed smoothly on your limbs, and on soft beds, gently, your desire for delicate girls was satisfied and how there was no dance and no holy shrine we two did not share, no sound, no.” Unlike the Iliad, the audience is left to interpret who the two individuals are, but because of the rich language Sappho uses in the fragment, the uncertainty provides a purpose, similar to that of Homer, which forces the audience to reflect deeper and embrace their imagination. Could this quote be coming from a widow speaking at her husbands funeral, or a woman saying goodbye to a warrior before he heads into battle ? The language of the quote suggests that whatever the context may be, that the two individuals shared a deep, unique connection, and spent a tremendous amount of time together. What’s ultimately remarkable about this quote is that it is sounds like something Andromache could have