Zeus, by way of Thetis, ordered Achilles to give Hector’s body to Priam (H., 470-471). When Priam first presents himself though, Achilles does not immediately return Hector’s body. After Priam’s moving speech, he and Achilles first share a moment of sadness where each remembers their loved ones. Next, Achilles expresses pity for Priam’s suffering and admiration for his “heart of iron” (H., 483). Finally, demands that Priam sit and share a meal with him. Previously, Priam had been sitting at Achilles feet. In the physical act of raising Priam up and sharing food with him, Achilles is making himself and Priam equals. Moreover, by understanding Priam’s grief and sharing his own pain, Achilles begins a friendly relationship with Priam. In another act of good will towards Priam, Achilles tries to protect him from the other Greek leaders by asking him to sleep outside his tent, fearing that the Greek commanders will seek him out for council during the night (H., 487). Once Achilles has built this relationship with Priam, he gives Priam instructions on taking possession of Hector’s body. While the gods’ orders likely played into Achilles decision to return Hector’s body, he only chooses to do so once he considers “dear Priam” a friend (H.,
Zeus, by way of Thetis, ordered Achilles to give Hector’s body to Priam (H., 470-471). When Priam first presents himself though, Achilles does not immediately return Hector’s body. After Priam’s moving speech, he and Achilles first share a moment of sadness where each remembers their loved ones. Next, Achilles expresses pity for Priam’s suffering and admiration for his “heart of iron” (H., 483). Finally, demands that Priam sit and share a meal with him. Previously, Priam had been sitting at Achilles feet. In the physical act of raising Priam up and sharing food with him, Achilles is making himself and Priam equals. Moreover, by understanding Priam’s grief and sharing his own pain, Achilles begins a friendly relationship with Priam. In another act of good will towards Priam, Achilles tries to protect him from the other Greek leaders by asking him to sleep outside his tent, fearing that the Greek commanders will seek him out for council during the night (H., 487). Once Achilles has built this relationship with Priam, he gives Priam instructions on taking possession of Hector’s body. While the gods’ orders likely played into Achilles decision to return Hector’s body, he only chooses to do so once he considers “dear Priam” a friend (H.,