Illiad Reaction Essay

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Iliad Reaction Paper I think the duel between Hector and Achilles marks the climax of the book. Achilles got his revenge when he was able to stab Hector in the weakest point of his armor. He knew that armor well as it was his dear friends. Although it may no have been perceived that way to Achilles, I think that Hector taking Patroclus’s armor ultimately saved Achilles and helped him defeat his enemy. Once they both missed their opponent when they threw spears, it could have been anyone’s match, but Achilles had the upper hand in knowing where to attack. I think that Achilles monologue to Hector close to his death was particularly interesting. He said: “Don’t try to cut any deals with me, Hector. Do lions make peace treaties with men? Do wolves and lambs agree to get along? No, they hate each other to the core, And that’s how it is between you and me, No talk of agreements until one of us Falls and gluts Ares with his blood.” (Book 22, lines 287-293, pages 430-1) When Achilles said this, moments before darting his spear in attempt to kill Hector, I think it shows the true violence of this story. It shows how Achilles can only imagine this feud ending with death. Its hard for me to determine if I agree with Achilles actions. On one hand, I do not find myself a very violent person and I think a lot of these problems wouldn’t have happened if people weren’t so power hungry. On the other hand, I could see Achilles actions being justifiable due to the revenge of Patroclus. I think this quote also foreshadows how Achilles does not plan on respecting Hector’s corpse once he passes. As humans are prey for lions and sheep are prey for wolves, Hector is Achilles’ prey. When one has a proper burial, it gives all those morning time to pay respect for their lost loved one. If Achilles truly hated Hector “to the core” as he stated, I was not surprised to see
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