Students are to complete the following assignment for Monday:
The Iliad-“The Arms of Achilles” Book 18-20pts
Write a reaction to Achilles’ behavior when he learns of Patroclus’ death. Where does he focus his rage? Is this appropriate? How important is the feud with Agamemnon?
"Son of warlike Peleus,you must hear this dreadful news—somethingI wish weren't so—Patroclus lies dead. Men are fighting now around the body.He's stripped. Hector with his gleaming helmethas the armour."
Antilochus finished speaking.A black cloud of grief swallowed up Achilles.With both hands he scooped up soot and dust and poured iton his head, covering his handsome face with dirt,covering his sweet-smelling tunic with black ash. He lay sprawling—his mighty warrior's massive bodycollapsed and stretched out in the dust. With his hands,he tugged at his own hair, disfiguring himself.The women slaves acquired as battle trophiesby Achilles and Patroclus, hearts overwhelmed with anguish, began to scream aloud. They rushed outsideand beat their breasts around warlike Achilles. Then all the women's legs gave way, and they fell down.Across from them, Antilochus lamented,eyes full of tears, as he held Achilles by the hand. Achilles' noble heart moaned aloud. Antilochusfeared he might hurt himself or slit his throatwith his own sword. Achilles gave a huge cry of grief.His noble mother heard it from the ocean depthswhere she was sitting by her ancient father.She began to wail. Then around her gatheredall the divine daughters of Nereus deep in the sea—Glauce, Thaleia, Cymodoce, Nesaea,Speio, Thoe, ox-eyed Halië, Cymothoë, Actaia, Limnoreia, Melite, Iaera, Amphithoe, Agave, Doto, Proto,Pherousa, Dynamene, Dexamene,Amphinome, Callianeira, Doris, Panope,lovely Galatea, Nemertes, Apseudes,Callianassa. Also there were Clymene,Ianeira, Ianassa, Maera, Orithyia,Amatheia with her lovely hair, and others,Nereus' daughters living in the ocean depths.fThey filled the glistening cave,beating their breasts.
"Yes, Mother,Olympian Zeus has indeed accomplishedwhat I asked. But what pleasure's there for me, when Patroclus, my beloved companion,has been destroyed, the man I honouredas my equal, above all my comrades. I've lost him and the armour, which Hector took,once he'd killed him, that massive armour,so wonderful to look at, which the godsgave as a priceless gift to Peleuson that day they placed you in the bedof a mortal man. If only you had stayedamong the eternal maidens of the seaand Peleus had married a mortal wife.But now there'll be innumerable sorrowswaiting for your heart, once your child is killed. You won't be welcoming him back home again. My own heart has no desire to live on,to continue living among men,unless Hector is hit by my spear first,losing his life and paying me compensationfor killing Menoetius' son, Patroclus."
Through her tears, Thetis then answered Achilles:
"My son, from what you've just been saying,you're fated to an early death, for your doomcomes quickly as soon as Hector dies."
Swift-footed Achilles answered her with passion:
"Then let me die, since I could not preventthe death of my companion.
How does Achilles turn the tide of battle without even fighting? What promise does he make to Patroclus?
He strode from the wall, then stood there by the ditch.But recalling what his mother said to him,he didn't mingle with Achaeans. As he stood there,he cried out. From far away, Pallas Athena added her voice, too, causing great consternationamong the Trojans. As thrilling as a trumpet's notewhen it rings clearly, when rapacious enemies besiege a city—that's how sharp and piercingAchilles' voice was then. When the Trojans heard it,that brazen shout Achilles gave, all their heartswere shaken. Their horses with the lovely manesturned back the chariots, anticipating troublein their hearts. Charioteers were terrified, seeingthe fearful inextinguishable fire blazing from the head of the great-hearted son of Peleus.For Athena, goddess with the glittering eyes,kept it burning. Three times godlike Achilles yelledacross that ditch. Three times Trojans and their allieswere thrown into confusion. At that moment, twelve of their best men were killed by their own chariots and their own spears. Achaeans then, with stronger hearts,pulled Patroclus out of spear range and laid him on a cot.His dear companions gathered mourning round him,Achilles with them, shedding hot tears when he saw his loyal companion lying on a death bed,mutilated by sharp bronze. He'd sent him out to warwith chariot and horses, but never welcomed himat his return.
_________________________________________________________
And now, Patroclus, since I'm journeying under the earth after you, I'll postponeyour burial till I bring here Hector's head,his armour, too, the man who slaughtered you,you courageous man. I'll cut the throats of twelve fine Trojan children on your pyre,in my anger at your killing. Till that time,you'll lie like this with me by my beaked ships,and round you Trojan and Dardanian womenwill keep lamenting night and day, shedding tears, the very women we two worked hard to winwith our strength and our long spears, by lootingprosperous cities of mortal men."
Friday, May 30, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
HW for Wednesday 5/28
Students are to complete the following assignment for Wednesday 5/28:
The Iliad-books 12 & 14-(20pts)
“The Fight at the Barricade”
This is the single most powerful image of Hector. What heroic qualities does he display?
"Drive forward, you horse-taming Trojans. Breach that Argive wall. Then burn the shipswith a huge fire."
With these words, he drove them on.Their ears all caught his call. Hurling themselves at the wallin a dense mass, gripping sharp spears, they began to climb. Hector picked up a rock lying before the gates,thick at its base but tapering sharply on the top. Two of the best working men now livingcould not lever that stone out of the ground easilyinto their cart, but Hector carried it with ease alone.Crooked-minded Cronos' son made it light for him. Just as a shepherd has no trouble carrying a ram's fleece in one hand, hardly noticing the weight,so Hector lifted up that rock, then carried it straight to the doors guarding the strongly fitted gates, high double doors with two cross pieces holding them insidesecured with a single bolt. Hector moved up closer,planted himself before the doors, his legs wide apartto throw with greater force, then hurled that rockright at the centre of the doors. He smashed both hinges. The stone's momentum took it clear through the doors.The gates groaned loudly. The bolts were sheared right off. The impact of that boulder shattered all the planks.Glorious Hector, his face like night's swift darkness,leapt inside. The bronze which covered his whole body was a terrifying glitter. In his hand he held two spears.Once he'd jumped inside the gates, no one moving out to stop him could hold him back, except the gods.From his eyes fire blazed. Wheeling through the throng,he shouted to his Trojans to climb the wall.His men responded to his call. Some scaled the wall,others came pouring through the hole made in the gates.Danaans were driven back among their hollow ships in a rout, and the noisy tumult never stopped.
“Zeus Deceived”
How/why is Hera able to deceive Zeus so easily? What is the modern relevance of this scene?
As this was happening, on a peak of Mount OlympusHera of the golden throne was standing watching.She recognized her brother-in-law at once,as he kept busy in the war where men win glory,for he was her brother and her husband's, too. Hera's heart was pleased. She looked across at Zeus, sitting on the highest peak on top of Ida,with its many fountains. Hatred filled her heart.So ox-eyed queen Hera then began consideringhow she might deceive the mind of aegis-bearing Zeus. In her heart the best course of action seemed to beto make herself look most attractive, go to Ida,then see if Zeus would want to lie down with her,embrace her, and make love. Then she could pour outon his eyelids and his crafty mind a deep warm sleep. She went off to her bedroom, which Hephaestus,her dear son, had made for her, with close-fitting doorsset against their posts, secured with a secret lock,which no other god could open. She went in there,then closed the shining doors. First, with ambrosia she washed from her lovely body all the stains,then rubbed her skin with fragrant oil, divinely sweet,made specially for her. If this perfume were merely stirredinside Zeus' bronze-floored house, its scent would then diffusethroughout heaven and earth. She used this perfume all over her fair body, then arranged her hair. With her own hands she combed her shining locks in braids,a stunning style for an immortal goddess.Then she wrapped around herself a heavenly robe,which Athena made for her from silky fabric,adorning it with gorgeous embroidery.She pinned the robe around her breast with golden brooches. On her waist she put a belt with a hundred tassels.Hera then fixed earrings in her pierced ear lobes,each with three gemstones, an enchanting glitter. Next the queen of goddesses placed on her head a fine new dazzling shawl, white as the sun.She then slipped lovely sandals over her sleek feet.
Once Hera had dressed her body in this finery,she left the room and summoned Aphrodite.Some distance from the other gods, she said to her:
"My dear child, will you agree to do what I ask of you, or will you refuse,because you're angry with me in your heart,since I help Danaans and you aid the Trojans?"
Zeus' daughter Aphrodite answered her:
"Hera, honoured goddess, daughter of great Cronos,say what's on your mind. My heart tells meI should do what you ask, if I can,if it's something that can be carried out."
Then queen Hera, with her devious mind, replied:
"Then give me Love and Sexual Desire,which you use to master all immortals,and mortal men as well. I'm going to visitthe limits of this all-nourishing earth, to see Oceanus, from whom the gods arose, and mother Tethys, the two who reared me,taking good care of me inside their home,once they got me from Rhea, that time Zeus,who sees far and wide, forced Cronosunderground, under the restless seas.I'm going to visit them. And I'll resolvetheir endless quarrel. For a long time now,they've stayed apart from one another,not sharing love there in the marriage bed, since anger fills their hearts. If my wordscould reconcile the hearts in these two gods,bring them to bed again, once more in love,they'd think of me with loving reverence."
Laughter-loving Aphrodite answered Hera:
"It wouldn't be appropriate for meto say no to your demand, since you sleepin the arms of Zeus, the greatest of the gods."
Aphrodite spoke, then loosened from her breaststhe finely decorated, embroidered garment in which all her magic charms were fixed—for love, erotic lust, flirtation, and seduction,which steals the wits even of clear-thinking men.Aphrodite put this in Hera's hands, then said:
"Take this garment. Tie it round your breasts.Everything is interwoven in the cloth. I don't think you'll come back unsuccessfulin getting what it is your heart desires."
Hera sped off, leaving the crest of mount Olympus.
There she met Sleep, Death's brother. Clasping his hand,she spoke to him:
"Sleep, king of all men and gods,if you've ever listened to what I say, obey me now. I'll be grateful always. Lull Zeus' radiant eyes to sleep for me,when I'm stretched out for sex beside him.I'll give you as a gift a lovely throne,indestructible gold which my own sonHephaestus with his ambidextrous skillswill make for you. Under it he'll set a stool, so you can rest your feet when drinking wine."
Sweet Sleep then said in reply:
"Honoured goddess Hera,daughter of mighty Cronos, I could with ease bring some other immortal one to sleep, even the streams of river Ocean,the source of all of them. But I won't comenear Zeus, lull him to sleep, unless he bids me,asks in person. Your request some time agotaught me my lesson, on that very day when Hercules, son of almighty Zeus,set sail from Ilion, after he'd sackedthe Trojans' city. That's when I seducedthe mind of aegis-bearing Zeus, pouring my sweetness over him. You then carried evil in your heart for Hercules, drivingblasts of hostile winds across the sea,taking him at last to well-settled Cos,far from all his friends. When Zeus woke up,he was incensed, throwing gods around his house,looking, above all, for me. He'd have tossed mefrom heaven into the sea, if Night,who subdues gods and men, had not saved me. I ran away to her, and Zeus held back though still enraged, not wishing to offend swift Night. Now here you are again, asking meto do something I simply must not do."
Ox-eyed queen Hera then answered him:
"Sleep,why concern your heart about these matters?Do you think all-seeing Zeus feels for Trojansthe same rage he felt then for Hercules,his own son? But come, I'll give you as your wifeone of the younger Graces. You can marryPasithea, whom you long for every day."
Hera finished. Sleep was overjoyed and said:
"All right, then. Swear to me by watersof the inviolable river Styx, settingone hand on the all-nourishing earth,the other on the shimmering sea,so all may witness our agreement,even those gods underground with Cronos,that you will give me one of the Graces,Pasithea, whom I long for every day."
White-armed goddess Hera agreed to Sleep's request.
Hera moved quickly on to Ida's peak, high Gargarus.Cloud-gatherer Zeus caught sight of her. As he looked,his wise heart became suffused with sexual desire,as strong as when they'd first made love together,lying on a couch without their parents' knowledge. Zeus stood up in front of her, called her, and said:
"Hera, what are you looking for, comingdown here from Olympus? Your chariotand your horses are not here. You should use them."
Queen Hera with her crafty mind then answered Zeus:
"I'm going to visit the outer limitsof this all-nourishing earth, to Oceanus,from whom gods came, and mother Tethys,who looked after me in their own home.They raised me well. I'll try to mediate their endless quarrel. For a long time now,they've stayed apart from one another,not sharing love there in the marriage bed,since anger fills their hearts. As for my horses,they're standing at the foot of Ida,with its many springs, to carry meacross dry land and sea. I've come here now,down from Mount Olympus, to stop youfrom being angry with me afterwards,if I say nothing about going to visit deep-flowing Oceanus in his home."
Cloud-gatherer Zeus then answered:
"Hera,you can go there later. But why don't welie down and make joyful love together?I've never felt such sexual desire beforefor any goddess, for any mortal woman.It's flooding through me, overpowering the hearthere in my chest—not even when I lusted forIxion's wife, who bore me Peirithoös,a man as wise as gods, or Danaë, with her enchanting ankles, daughter of Acrisius, who gave birth to Perseus, most illustrious of men, nor the daughterof famous Phoenix, who bore me Minosand godlike Rhadamanthus, nor Alcmene,who gave birth to Hercules in Thebes,a mighty hearted son, nor Semele,who bore that joy to mortals Dionysus,nor fair-haired lady Demeter, nor Leto,that glorious girl, not even for yourself—I felt for none of these the love I feelfor you right now—such sweet desire grips me."
Queen Hera with her cunning mind then said in reply:
"Most fearsome son of Cronos, what are you saying? If you now want us to make love lying here,on Ida’s peaks, where anyone can see,what if one of the immortal gods observes us,as we sleep, then goes and tells the other gods?I could not get up from this bed and gointo your home. That would be scandalous. But if that's your wish, if your heart's set on it, you have that bedroom your own son Hephaestus had built for you. It has close-fitting doorsfixed into posts. Let's go and lie down there,since you're so keen for us to go to bed."
Underneath them divine Earth made fresh flowers grow—dew-covered clover, crocuses, and hyacinths,lush and soft, to hold the lovers off the ground.They lay together there covered with a cloud, a lovely golden mist, from which fell glistening dew.Then Zeus slumbered peacefully on Mount Gargarus,overcome with love and sleep, his wife in his embrace.
Sweet Sleep rushed to the Achaean ships, to inform Poseidon, the Encircler and Shaker of the Earth.Coming up to him, Sleep spoke—his words had wings:
"Poseidon, you could now assist the Argivesquite readily and give them glory,if only for a while—Zeus is fast asleep.I’ve covered him with a delicious sleep.Hera has seduced him on a bed of love."
The Iliad-books 12 & 14-(20pts)
“The Fight at the Barricade”
This is the single most powerful image of Hector. What heroic qualities does he display?
"Drive forward, you horse-taming Trojans. Breach that Argive wall. Then burn the shipswith a huge fire."
With these words, he drove them on.Their ears all caught his call. Hurling themselves at the wallin a dense mass, gripping sharp spears, they began to climb. Hector picked up a rock lying before the gates,thick at its base but tapering sharply on the top. Two of the best working men now livingcould not lever that stone out of the ground easilyinto their cart, but Hector carried it with ease alone.Crooked-minded Cronos' son made it light for him. Just as a shepherd has no trouble carrying a ram's fleece in one hand, hardly noticing the weight,so Hector lifted up that rock, then carried it straight to the doors guarding the strongly fitted gates, high double doors with two cross pieces holding them insidesecured with a single bolt. Hector moved up closer,planted himself before the doors, his legs wide apartto throw with greater force, then hurled that rockright at the centre of the doors. He smashed both hinges. The stone's momentum took it clear through the doors.The gates groaned loudly. The bolts were sheared right off. The impact of that boulder shattered all the planks.Glorious Hector, his face like night's swift darkness,leapt inside. The bronze which covered his whole body was a terrifying glitter. In his hand he held two spears.Once he'd jumped inside the gates, no one moving out to stop him could hold him back, except the gods.From his eyes fire blazed. Wheeling through the throng,he shouted to his Trojans to climb the wall.His men responded to his call. Some scaled the wall,others came pouring through the hole made in the gates.Danaans were driven back among their hollow ships in a rout, and the noisy tumult never stopped.
“Zeus Deceived”
How/why is Hera able to deceive Zeus so easily? What is the modern relevance of this scene?
As this was happening, on a peak of Mount OlympusHera of the golden throne was standing watching.She recognized her brother-in-law at once,as he kept busy in the war where men win glory,for he was her brother and her husband's, too. Hera's heart was pleased. She looked across at Zeus, sitting on the highest peak on top of Ida,with its many fountains. Hatred filled her heart.So ox-eyed queen Hera then began consideringhow she might deceive the mind of aegis-bearing Zeus. In her heart the best course of action seemed to beto make herself look most attractive, go to Ida,then see if Zeus would want to lie down with her,embrace her, and make love. Then she could pour outon his eyelids and his crafty mind a deep warm sleep. She went off to her bedroom, which Hephaestus,her dear son, had made for her, with close-fitting doorsset against their posts, secured with a secret lock,which no other god could open. She went in there,then closed the shining doors. First, with ambrosia she washed from her lovely body all the stains,then rubbed her skin with fragrant oil, divinely sweet,made specially for her. If this perfume were merely stirredinside Zeus' bronze-floored house, its scent would then diffusethroughout heaven and earth. She used this perfume all over her fair body, then arranged her hair. With her own hands she combed her shining locks in braids,a stunning style for an immortal goddess.Then she wrapped around herself a heavenly robe,which Athena made for her from silky fabric,adorning it with gorgeous embroidery.She pinned the robe around her breast with golden brooches. On her waist she put a belt with a hundred tassels.Hera then fixed earrings in her pierced ear lobes,each with three gemstones, an enchanting glitter. Next the queen of goddesses placed on her head a fine new dazzling shawl, white as the sun.She then slipped lovely sandals over her sleek feet.
Once Hera had dressed her body in this finery,she left the room and summoned Aphrodite.Some distance from the other gods, she said to her:
"My dear child, will you agree to do what I ask of you, or will you refuse,because you're angry with me in your heart,since I help Danaans and you aid the Trojans?"
Zeus' daughter Aphrodite answered her:
"Hera, honoured goddess, daughter of great Cronos,say what's on your mind. My heart tells meI should do what you ask, if I can,if it's something that can be carried out."
Then queen Hera, with her devious mind, replied:
"Then give me Love and Sexual Desire,which you use to master all immortals,and mortal men as well. I'm going to visitthe limits of this all-nourishing earth, to see Oceanus, from whom the gods arose, and mother Tethys, the two who reared me,taking good care of me inside their home,once they got me from Rhea, that time Zeus,who sees far and wide, forced Cronosunderground, under the restless seas.I'm going to visit them. And I'll resolvetheir endless quarrel. For a long time now,they've stayed apart from one another,not sharing love there in the marriage bed, since anger fills their hearts. If my wordscould reconcile the hearts in these two gods,bring them to bed again, once more in love,they'd think of me with loving reverence."
Laughter-loving Aphrodite answered Hera:
"It wouldn't be appropriate for meto say no to your demand, since you sleepin the arms of Zeus, the greatest of the gods."
Aphrodite spoke, then loosened from her breaststhe finely decorated, embroidered garment in which all her magic charms were fixed—for love, erotic lust, flirtation, and seduction,which steals the wits even of clear-thinking men.Aphrodite put this in Hera's hands, then said:
"Take this garment. Tie it round your breasts.Everything is interwoven in the cloth. I don't think you'll come back unsuccessfulin getting what it is your heart desires."
Hera sped off, leaving the crest of mount Olympus.
There she met Sleep, Death's brother. Clasping his hand,she spoke to him:
"Sleep, king of all men and gods,if you've ever listened to what I say, obey me now. I'll be grateful always. Lull Zeus' radiant eyes to sleep for me,when I'm stretched out for sex beside him.I'll give you as a gift a lovely throne,indestructible gold which my own sonHephaestus with his ambidextrous skillswill make for you. Under it he'll set a stool, so you can rest your feet when drinking wine."
Sweet Sleep then said in reply:
"Honoured goddess Hera,daughter of mighty Cronos, I could with ease bring some other immortal one to sleep, even the streams of river Ocean,the source of all of them. But I won't comenear Zeus, lull him to sleep, unless he bids me,asks in person. Your request some time agotaught me my lesson, on that very day when Hercules, son of almighty Zeus,set sail from Ilion, after he'd sackedthe Trojans' city. That's when I seducedthe mind of aegis-bearing Zeus, pouring my sweetness over him. You then carried evil in your heart for Hercules, drivingblasts of hostile winds across the sea,taking him at last to well-settled Cos,far from all his friends. When Zeus woke up,he was incensed, throwing gods around his house,looking, above all, for me. He'd have tossed mefrom heaven into the sea, if Night,who subdues gods and men, had not saved me. I ran away to her, and Zeus held back though still enraged, not wishing to offend swift Night. Now here you are again, asking meto do something I simply must not do."
Ox-eyed queen Hera then answered him:
"Sleep,why concern your heart about these matters?Do you think all-seeing Zeus feels for Trojansthe same rage he felt then for Hercules,his own son? But come, I'll give you as your wifeone of the younger Graces. You can marryPasithea, whom you long for every day."
Hera finished. Sleep was overjoyed and said:
"All right, then. Swear to me by watersof the inviolable river Styx, settingone hand on the all-nourishing earth,the other on the shimmering sea,so all may witness our agreement,even those gods underground with Cronos,that you will give me one of the Graces,Pasithea, whom I long for every day."
White-armed goddess Hera agreed to Sleep's request.
Hera moved quickly on to Ida's peak, high Gargarus.Cloud-gatherer Zeus caught sight of her. As he looked,his wise heart became suffused with sexual desire,as strong as when they'd first made love together,lying on a couch without their parents' knowledge. Zeus stood up in front of her, called her, and said:
"Hera, what are you looking for, comingdown here from Olympus? Your chariotand your horses are not here. You should use them."
Queen Hera with her crafty mind then answered Zeus:
"I'm going to visit the outer limitsof this all-nourishing earth, to Oceanus,from whom gods came, and mother Tethys,who looked after me in their own home.They raised me well. I'll try to mediate their endless quarrel. For a long time now,they've stayed apart from one another,not sharing love there in the marriage bed,since anger fills their hearts. As for my horses,they're standing at the foot of Ida,with its many springs, to carry meacross dry land and sea. I've come here now,down from Mount Olympus, to stop youfrom being angry with me afterwards,if I say nothing about going to visit deep-flowing Oceanus in his home."
Cloud-gatherer Zeus then answered:
"Hera,you can go there later. But why don't welie down and make joyful love together?I've never felt such sexual desire beforefor any goddess, for any mortal woman.It's flooding through me, overpowering the hearthere in my chest—not even when I lusted forIxion's wife, who bore me Peirithoös,a man as wise as gods, or Danaë, with her enchanting ankles, daughter of Acrisius, who gave birth to Perseus, most illustrious of men, nor the daughterof famous Phoenix, who bore me Minosand godlike Rhadamanthus, nor Alcmene,who gave birth to Hercules in Thebes,a mighty hearted son, nor Semele,who bore that joy to mortals Dionysus,nor fair-haired lady Demeter, nor Leto,that glorious girl, not even for yourself—I felt for none of these the love I feelfor you right now—such sweet desire grips me."
Queen Hera with her cunning mind then said in reply:
"Most fearsome son of Cronos, what are you saying? If you now want us to make love lying here,on Ida’s peaks, where anyone can see,what if one of the immortal gods observes us,as we sleep, then goes and tells the other gods?I could not get up from this bed and gointo your home. That would be scandalous. But if that's your wish, if your heart's set on it, you have that bedroom your own son Hephaestus had built for you. It has close-fitting doorsfixed into posts. Let's go and lie down there,since you're so keen for us to go to bed."
Underneath them divine Earth made fresh flowers grow—dew-covered clover, crocuses, and hyacinths,lush and soft, to hold the lovers off the ground.They lay together there covered with a cloud, a lovely golden mist, from which fell glistening dew.Then Zeus slumbered peacefully on Mount Gargarus,overcome with love and sleep, his wife in his embrace.
Sweet Sleep rushed to the Achaean ships, to inform Poseidon, the Encircler and Shaker of the Earth.Coming up to him, Sleep spoke—his words had wings:
"Poseidon, you could now assist the Argivesquite readily and give them glory,if only for a while—Zeus is fast asleep.I’ve covered him with a delicious sleep.Hera has seduced him on a bed of love."
Thursday, May 22, 2008
HW for tomorrow
Students are to complete the following assignment for tomorrow:
The Iliad-book 10 “A Night Raid”-20pts
Relate Diomedes’ and Odysseus’ treatment of the prisoner Dolon to today. Do they treat him fairly? Write a reaction to their actions. In other words, defend or refute.
Dolon wasn't much to look at, but he ran fast.He was the only male child, with five sisters.At that point he spoke up to Hector and the Trojans:
"Hector, my heart and my proud spirit prompt me to volunteer to sneak up to those fast ships and find out what I can. Come, raise your sceptre,swear to me that you'll give me those horses and that chariot decorated all in bronze which carry the fine son of Peleus.I'll not be a useless scout or disappoint you.I'll go straight through the army, till I reach Agamemnon's ship, where their best men must be in council talking of their plans, whether to flee or to continue fighting."
Dolon spoke. Holding up his sceptre, Hector swore:
"Let Zeus himself, Hera's loud-thundering husband,be my witness, that no other Trojan will be carried by those horses. I affirm that you will glory in them all your life."
Hector spoke. He'd sworn an empty oath, but Dolon was encouraged. At once, he slung across his shoulderhis curved bow, then threw a gray wolf skin on it. On his head he set a cap of marten skin, grabbed a sharp spear, and set off, going from the camptowards the ships. He would not be coming backbringing Hector information from the ships.But when he left the crowd of men and horses,he went eagerly along the path. As he moved, noble Odysseus saw him and said to Diomedes:
"Diomedes, someone's coming from the camp.I don't know if he's going to scout our ships or strip some dead man's corpse. Let's let himat first get past us on the plain, just a bit. Then we can go after him and catch him fast. If his feet outrun ours, we'll keep following himand chase him from his camp towards our ships.Keep brandishing your spear behind him,so he doesn't make it to the city."
After these words, the two men lay down beside the road,among the corpses. Dolon ran past them quickly, quite unaware. When he'd gone about as faras mules plough in a single day—and in deep fields they outwork oxen pulling double-jointed ploughs—the two men ran after him. When he heard their noise,Dolon stopped, hoping in his heart they were comradescoming from the Trojans to get him to turn back,Hector having changed the orders. But when they camewithin the distance of a spear throw or even less, he saw that they were enemies and started running,to get away as quickly as his legs could carry him.They set off chasing him with speed. Just as when two dogs, skilled hunting hounds with sharp fangs, harass some doeor hare relentlessly across a wooded country, the prey screaming as it runs, that's how Tydeus' sonand Odysseus, destroyer of cities, pursued him,keeping Dolon from his people with their constant chase.When Dolon was about to run into the sentriesin his flight towards the ships, at that pointAthena put fighting power into Tydeus' son,so no bronze-clad Achaean could make the boastthat he'd hit Dolon first and that Diomedeshad come up later. Springing forward with his spear,powerful Diomedes yelled:
"Stop! Or I'll hit you with my spear. I don't thinkyou'll long escape complete destruction at my hands"
Diomedes shouted this, then threw the spear,deliberately missing Dolon. The polished spear point sailed over his right shoulder, then stuck in the ground.Dolon just stood there terrified, stammering, pale with fear—his teeth were chattering in his mouth. The two men ran up,panting, and grabbed his hands. Dolon began to cry and beg:
"Take me alive, and I'll ransom myself. At home there is bronze, gold, well-wrought iron. My father will give lots of it to you—an immense ransom—if he once finds out I'm at Achaean ships and still alive."
Crafty Odysseus smiled at him and said:
"Don't worry. Don't let death weigh down your heart.Come now, tell me—and be sure to speak the truth.Why are you going like this to the ships alone,away from your army in the dead of night,when other warriors are fast asleep?Are you going to strip some dead man's body, or has Hector sent you as a spy,to learn something about the hollow ships?Or did your own spirit prompt you to this?"
Dolon answered Odysseus, his limbs trembling.
"Hector led my mind astray with foolish hopes,lots of them. He promised he'd give methe sure-footed horses of Achilles,Peleus' excellent son, and his chariotwith its bronze decoration. He told meto venture out into the swift dark night, get close to hostile troops, and then find out if they were guarding their swift ships as before, or whether, now we have defeated them,they were planning flight among themselves,unwilling to keep up watch at night,exhausted by their desperate efforts."
Shrewd Odysseus, still smiling, then continued:
"Your heart has been ambitious for big gifts.Those horses of warrior Achilles,descendant of Aeacus, are hard to manage or control for any mortal person,except Achilles, son of an immortal mother.Tell me, now, and be sure to speak the truth.When you came here, where did you leave Hector,shepherd to his people? Where's his armour?Where are his horses? How are the sentriesof the other Trojans set? Where are they sleeping?Tell me what they talk of amongst themselves, whether they're eager to stay beside the ships,quite far from home, or whether they'll return to the city, with Achaeans beaten."
Dolon, son of Eumedes, answered Odysseus:
"I'll answer you in this quite truthfully.Right now Hector is with his advisors,holding a council meeting by the tombof godlike Ilus, some distance from the noise.As for the guards you asked about, noble sir,there's nothing special to protect the troops,or keep lookout. By all Trojan watch fires,as necessity requires, there are men who stay awake, calling to each other,to keep up their guard. But the allied force, which comes from many lands, is sleeping.They leave it to Trojans to stay on watch,for their wives and children aren't close by."
Crafty Odysseus, with a smile, then asked Dolon:
"Now, those allies—are they intermingledwith horse-taming Trojans where they sleepor separate from them? Tell me. I need to know."
Dolon, son of Eumedes, answered Odysseus:
"I can reveal the truth of this as well.By the sea lie Carians, Paeonians,with their curved bows, Lelegians, Caucones,god-like Pelasgians. Around Thymbreare positioned Lycians, Mysians, impetuous fighters, and Phrygians,who fight on horseback, and from Maeoniathere are charioteers. But why ask me detailsof these matters? If you're keen to infiltratethe Trojan army, over there are Thracians, fresh troops, new arrivals, furthest distantfrom the rest, among them their king Rhesus,son of Eioneus. His horses are the best,the finest and largest ones I've ever seen,whiter than snow, as fast as the winds.His chariot is finely built—with goldand silver. He came here with his armour—an amazing sight—huge and made of gold.It's not appropriate for mortal men to wear such armour, only deathless gods. But take me now to your fast ships, or elsetie me up, leave me here in painful fetters,so you can go and check my story out,see whether I have told the truth or not."
Mighty Diomedes scowled at Dolon and said:
"Don't fill your heart with thoughts you'll get away,Dolon, even though your news is good.You've fallen in our hands. Now, if wereleased you or set you free for ransom,you'd come back to the swift Achaean ships, either to spy or fight us openly.But if my hands subdue you and you die,you'll pose no problems for the Argives later."
As Diomedes finished, Dolon was intending to cup his chin with his strong hand in supplication.But with his sword Diomedes jumped at him,slashed him across the middle of his neck, slicingthrough both tendons. Dolon's head rolled in the dust,as he was speaking. They stripped the cap of marten skin,then took the wolf hide, long spear, and his curved bow. Lord Odysseus held these objects high above him for Athena, goddess of battle spoils, and prayed:
Explain Diomedes’ actions in this scene. Are they heroic? Defend or refute them.
"There's our man, Diomedes. And these are the horseswhich Dolon told us of, the man we killed.Come, now, let's see that mighty strength of yours.It's not right for you to stand there idly with your weapons. So loose those horses. Or else kill the men, while I take care of them."
Odysseus spoke. Athena with her glittering eyesbreathed fighting power into Diomedes. Moving around everywhere, he began the killing.Agonizing groans came from those his sword then butchered. The earth grew soggy with their blood. Just as a lioncomes across an unguarded flock of sheep or goatsand leaps on them, heart thirsting for the kill,so Tydeus' son went at those Thracian soldiers,until he'd slaughtered twelve. Whenever Diomedesstood over some man he'd just killed with his sword,crafty Odysseus, from behind, would grab his feet and drag the body clear. For his mind was planninghow he might steal the fine-maned horses easily,if he didn't frighten them by forcing them to step on dead men's bodies, for they were not used to that.Tydeus' son came across the king, the thirteenth man whose sweet life he had taken. Rhesus lay there,in his last gasp. A bad dream had stood beside his headthat night, a device sent by Athena—and that dreamwas the son of Tydeus. Meanwhile, bold Odysseus untied the sure-footed horses, roped them together,and drove them from the camp, prodding with his bow,for he'd forgotten to pick up the shining whip from the ornate chariot. Then he gave a whistle, to signal noble Diomedes. But he just stayed there,wondering how he could do something really bold.Should he take away the chariot, which containedthe king's finely decorated armour, pull itby the pole, or lift it up above his headand carry it like that? Or should he take the livesof still more Thracians? While Diomedes turned overthese matters in his mind, Athena came, stood by him,then said to noble Diomedes:
"Think of going back,to the hollow ships, son of great-hearted Tydeus, in case you get driven there in quick retreat, if some other god wakes up the Trojans."
The Iliad-book 10 “A Night Raid”-20pts
Relate Diomedes’ and Odysseus’ treatment of the prisoner Dolon to today. Do they treat him fairly? Write a reaction to their actions. In other words, defend or refute.
Dolon wasn't much to look at, but he ran fast.He was the only male child, with five sisters.At that point he spoke up to Hector and the Trojans:
"Hector, my heart and my proud spirit prompt me to volunteer to sneak up to those fast ships and find out what I can. Come, raise your sceptre,swear to me that you'll give me those horses and that chariot decorated all in bronze which carry the fine son of Peleus.I'll not be a useless scout or disappoint you.I'll go straight through the army, till I reach Agamemnon's ship, where their best men must be in council talking of their plans, whether to flee or to continue fighting."
Dolon spoke. Holding up his sceptre, Hector swore:
"Let Zeus himself, Hera's loud-thundering husband,be my witness, that no other Trojan will be carried by those horses. I affirm that you will glory in them all your life."
Hector spoke. He'd sworn an empty oath, but Dolon was encouraged. At once, he slung across his shoulderhis curved bow, then threw a gray wolf skin on it. On his head he set a cap of marten skin, grabbed a sharp spear, and set off, going from the camptowards the ships. He would not be coming backbringing Hector information from the ships.But when he left the crowd of men and horses,he went eagerly along the path. As he moved, noble Odysseus saw him and said to Diomedes:
"Diomedes, someone's coming from the camp.I don't know if he's going to scout our ships or strip some dead man's corpse. Let's let himat first get past us on the plain, just a bit. Then we can go after him and catch him fast. If his feet outrun ours, we'll keep following himand chase him from his camp towards our ships.Keep brandishing your spear behind him,so he doesn't make it to the city."
After these words, the two men lay down beside the road,among the corpses. Dolon ran past them quickly, quite unaware. When he'd gone about as faras mules plough in a single day—and in deep fields they outwork oxen pulling double-jointed ploughs—the two men ran after him. When he heard their noise,Dolon stopped, hoping in his heart they were comradescoming from the Trojans to get him to turn back,Hector having changed the orders. But when they camewithin the distance of a spear throw or even less, he saw that they were enemies and started running,to get away as quickly as his legs could carry him.They set off chasing him with speed. Just as when two dogs, skilled hunting hounds with sharp fangs, harass some doeor hare relentlessly across a wooded country, the prey screaming as it runs, that's how Tydeus' sonand Odysseus, destroyer of cities, pursued him,keeping Dolon from his people with their constant chase.When Dolon was about to run into the sentriesin his flight towards the ships, at that pointAthena put fighting power into Tydeus' son,so no bronze-clad Achaean could make the boastthat he'd hit Dolon first and that Diomedeshad come up later. Springing forward with his spear,powerful Diomedes yelled:
"Stop! Or I'll hit you with my spear. I don't thinkyou'll long escape complete destruction at my hands"
Diomedes shouted this, then threw the spear,deliberately missing Dolon. The polished spear point sailed over his right shoulder, then stuck in the ground.Dolon just stood there terrified, stammering, pale with fear—his teeth were chattering in his mouth. The two men ran up,panting, and grabbed his hands. Dolon began to cry and beg:
"Take me alive, and I'll ransom myself. At home there is bronze, gold, well-wrought iron. My father will give lots of it to you—an immense ransom—if he once finds out I'm at Achaean ships and still alive."
Crafty Odysseus smiled at him and said:
"Don't worry. Don't let death weigh down your heart.Come now, tell me—and be sure to speak the truth.Why are you going like this to the ships alone,away from your army in the dead of night,when other warriors are fast asleep?Are you going to strip some dead man's body, or has Hector sent you as a spy,to learn something about the hollow ships?Or did your own spirit prompt you to this?"
Dolon answered Odysseus, his limbs trembling.
"Hector led my mind astray with foolish hopes,lots of them. He promised he'd give methe sure-footed horses of Achilles,Peleus' excellent son, and his chariotwith its bronze decoration. He told meto venture out into the swift dark night, get close to hostile troops, and then find out if they were guarding their swift ships as before, or whether, now we have defeated them,they were planning flight among themselves,unwilling to keep up watch at night,exhausted by their desperate efforts."
Shrewd Odysseus, still smiling, then continued:
"Your heart has been ambitious for big gifts.Those horses of warrior Achilles,descendant of Aeacus, are hard to manage or control for any mortal person,except Achilles, son of an immortal mother.Tell me, now, and be sure to speak the truth.When you came here, where did you leave Hector,shepherd to his people? Where's his armour?Where are his horses? How are the sentriesof the other Trojans set? Where are they sleeping?Tell me what they talk of amongst themselves, whether they're eager to stay beside the ships,quite far from home, or whether they'll return to the city, with Achaeans beaten."
Dolon, son of Eumedes, answered Odysseus:
"I'll answer you in this quite truthfully.Right now Hector is with his advisors,holding a council meeting by the tombof godlike Ilus, some distance from the noise.As for the guards you asked about, noble sir,there's nothing special to protect the troops,or keep lookout. By all Trojan watch fires,as necessity requires, there are men who stay awake, calling to each other,to keep up their guard. But the allied force, which comes from many lands, is sleeping.They leave it to Trojans to stay on watch,for their wives and children aren't close by."
Crafty Odysseus, with a smile, then asked Dolon:
"Now, those allies—are they intermingledwith horse-taming Trojans where they sleepor separate from them? Tell me. I need to know."
Dolon, son of Eumedes, answered Odysseus:
"I can reveal the truth of this as well.By the sea lie Carians, Paeonians,with their curved bows, Lelegians, Caucones,god-like Pelasgians. Around Thymbreare positioned Lycians, Mysians, impetuous fighters, and Phrygians,who fight on horseback, and from Maeoniathere are charioteers. But why ask me detailsof these matters? If you're keen to infiltratethe Trojan army, over there are Thracians, fresh troops, new arrivals, furthest distantfrom the rest, among them their king Rhesus,son of Eioneus. His horses are the best,the finest and largest ones I've ever seen,whiter than snow, as fast as the winds.His chariot is finely built—with goldand silver. He came here with his armour—an amazing sight—huge and made of gold.It's not appropriate for mortal men to wear such armour, only deathless gods. But take me now to your fast ships, or elsetie me up, leave me here in painful fetters,so you can go and check my story out,see whether I have told the truth or not."
Mighty Diomedes scowled at Dolon and said:
"Don't fill your heart with thoughts you'll get away,Dolon, even though your news is good.You've fallen in our hands. Now, if wereleased you or set you free for ransom,you'd come back to the swift Achaean ships, either to spy or fight us openly.But if my hands subdue you and you die,you'll pose no problems for the Argives later."
As Diomedes finished, Dolon was intending to cup his chin with his strong hand in supplication.But with his sword Diomedes jumped at him,slashed him across the middle of his neck, slicingthrough both tendons. Dolon's head rolled in the dust,as he was speaking. They stripped the cap of marten skin,then took the wolf hide, long spear, and his curved bow. Lord Odysseus held these objects high above him for Athena, goddess of battle spoils, and prayed:
Explain Diomedes’ actions in this scene. Are they heroic? Defend or refute them.
"There's our man, Diomedes. And these are the horseswhich Dolon told us of, the man we killed.Come, now, let's see that mighty strength of yours.It's not right for you to stand there idly with your weapons. So loose those horses. Or else kill the men, while I take care of them."
Odysseus spoke. Athena with her glittering eyesbreathed fighting power into Diomedes. Moving around everywhere, he began the killing.Agonizing groans came from those his sword then butchered. The earth grew soggy with their blood. Just as a lioncomes across an unguarded flock of sheep or goatsand leaps on them, heart thirsting for the kill,so Tydeus' son went at those Thracian soldiers,until he'd slaughtered twelve. Whenever Diomedesstood over some man he'd just killed with his sword,crafty Odysseus, from behind, would grab his feet and drag the body clear. For his mind was planninghow he might steal the fine-maned horses easily,if he didn't frighten them by forcing them to step on dead men's bodies, for they were not used to that.Tydeus' son came across the king, the thirteenth man whose sweet life he had taken. Rhesus lay there,in his last gasp. A bad dream had stood beside his headthat night, a device sent by Athena—and that dreamwas the son of Tydeus. Meanwhile, bold Odysseus untied the sure-footed horses, roped them together,and drove them from the camp, prodding with his bow,for he'd forgotten to pick up the shining whip from the ornate chariot. Then he gave a whistle, to signal noble Diomedes. But he just stayed there,wondering how he could do something really bold.Should he take away the chariot, which containedthe king's finely decorated armour, pull itby the pole, or lift it up above his headand carry it like that? Or should he take the livesof still more Thracians? While Diomedes turned overthese matters in his mind, Athena came, stood by him,then said to noble Diomedes:
"Think of going back,to the hollow ships, son of great-hearted Tydeus, in case you get driven there in quick retreat, if some other god wakes up the Trojans."
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
HW for Thursday 5/22
Students are to complete the following assignment:
The Iliad-“Peace Offerings to Achilles” Book 9-20pts
Agamemnon reluctantly agrees to bribe Achilles to return to battle. List the gifts he offers and the one condition that he attaches. Is this out of character? Explain.
"Mighty son of Atreus, Agamemnon,king of men, I'll begin and end my speechwith you, for you are lord of many men.Zeus gave you sceptre and laws to rule them.Thus, you, above all, should speak and listen, then act upon what other men may say, if their spirit prompts them to speak well.You'll get the credit for what they begin.So I'll say what seems to me the best advice.No one else has set out a better schemethan the one which I've been mulling overa long time now, ever since you, my lord,made Achilles angry by taking backthat young girl Briseis from his hut,against my judgment. Repeatedly,I urged you not to do it. But then you, surrendering to your arrogant spirit,shamed our strongest man, honoured by the gods. You still have that prize you took. So now let's thinkhow we may make amends, win him back with giftsand gracious speeches, and be friends once more."
Agamemnon, king of men, then answered Nestor:
"Old man, you expose my folly justly.I was deluded. I don't deny that.The man whom Zeus loves in his heart is worth whole armies. And this man Zeus now honours by destroying an army of Achaeans.Since my delusion made me followmy mistaken feelings, I'm now willingto make amends, to give in recompense immense treasures. I'll list these rich gifts in presence of you all—seven tripodswhich fire has not yet touched, ten gold talents,twenty shining cauldrons, twelve strong horseswhose speed has triumphed and earned them prizes.A man who has as much as I have won from racing these sure-footed animalswould not be poor, or lack possessions,or need precious gold. And then I'll give himseven women of Lesbos, skilled in crafts,whom I chose for myself when he capturedwell-built Lesbos. They surpass all women for their beauty. These I shall present to him.With them the one I seized from him, Briseis,daughter of Briseus. I'll solemnly swearI never once went up into her bed or had sex with her, as is men's custom,where men and women are concerned.All these things he will receive immediately.If gods grant we destroy Priam's great city,when we Achaeans allocate the spoils,let him come and load his ship with gold,with bronze, as much as he desires. He may choosetwenty Trojan women for himself,the loveliest after Argive Helen. If we get back to the rich land of Argos, he can then become my son-in-law.I'll honour him just as I do Orestes,my son, whom I dearly love. He's being raisedin great prosperity. In my well-built home,I have three daughters—Chrysothemis,Iphianessa and Laodice.He can take whichever one he choosesback home as his wife to Peleus' houseand pay no bridal gift. I'll give much more to bring about our reconciliation, a dowry bigger than any man so farhas ever handed over with his daughter.I'll give him seven populous cities,Cardamyle, Enope, grassy Hire, holy Pherae, fertile Antheia,lovely Aepea, and vine-rich Pedasus,all near the sea, beside sandy Pylos.People living in these places own a lot,many sheep and cattle. They will honour him and give him gifts, as if he were a god. Under his laws and sceptre they'll do well.I shall give all this if he will abatehis anger. Let him concede. Only Hadesis totally relentless and unyielding.That's why of all the gods, he's the onemen hate the most. And let him acknowledgemy authority, for I'm the greater king. In age I can claim to be his senior."
What is used to persuade Achilles to return besides the gifts? What aspect of his personality is Odysseus appealing to? What examples does Achilles offer to explain his rage towards Agamemnon? Provide a line that describes Achilles explaining his fate.
If you will hear the list, then I'll repeatwhat Agamemnon has promised to you.All gifts are in his huts—seven tripodswhich fire has not yet touched, ten gold talents,twenty shining cauldrons, twelve strong horseswhose speed has triumphed, earned them prizes—a man who's won as much as Agamemnonfrom racing these sure-footed animalswould not be poor or lack possessionsor precious gold. Then he will add to thisseven women of Lesbos, skilled in crafts, whom he chose for himself when you capturedwell-built Lesbos. They surpass all womenfor their beauty. These he will present to you,with them the one he seized from you, Briseis, daughter of Briseus. He'll solemnly swear he never once went up into her bedor had sex with her, as is men's custom,where men and women are concerned.All these things you will receive immediately.If gods grant that we destroy Priam's great city,when we Achaeans allocate the spoils,you may come and load your ship with gold,with bronze, as much as you desire. You may choose twenty Trojan women for yourself, the loveliest after Argive Helen. If we get back to the rich land of Argos,you can then become his son-in-law.He'll honour you just as he does Orestes,his son, whom he dearly loves. He's being raisedin great prosperity. In his well-built homehe has three daughters—Chrysothemis,Iphianessa, and Laodice.You can take whichever one you chooseback home as your wife to Peleus' houseand pay no bridal gift. He'll give much more to bring about your reconciliation,a dowry bigger than any man so farhas ever handed over with his daughter.He'll give you seven populous cities,Cardamyle, Enope, grassy Hire,holy Pherae, fertile Antheia,lovely Aepea, and vine-rich Pedasus,all near the sea, beside sandy Pylos.People living in these places possessmany sheep and cattle and will honour you and give you gifts, as if you were a god.Under your laws and sceptre they'll do well.He will give all this, if you will abateyour anger. But if your heart still resents Atreus' son and his gifts, then take pityon all Achaeans, our exhausted soldiers. They will pay you honours like a god.Among them you'll earn enormous glory,for now you might kill Hector, who may well approach you—he's so obsessed with slaughter, he thinks there's not a warrior his equal among Danaans brought here in our ships."
But mighty Agamemnon, Atreus' son, in his arrogance, seized back from me the prize which he awarded. Tell him that.Repeat in public everything I say,so other Achaeans will grow angry, if he, still clothed in shamelessness, hopesat any time to deceive some Argive.Cur that he is, he doesn't dare confront meface to face. I'll discuss no plans with him,no actions. He cheated me, betrayed me.His words will cheat no more. To hell with him. Let him march to his death by his own road, for Counsellor Zeus has stolen his wits.I hate his gifts. And he's not worth a damn.Not even if he gave me ten times, no, twenty times more than all he owns right now,or will possess in future, not even all the wealth amassed in Orchomenus,or Egyptian Thebes, where huge treasures sitpiled up in houses—that city of gates,one hundred of them, through each can ride two hundred men, horses and chariots all together—not even if he gave megifts as numerous as grains of sandbeside the sea or particles of dust,not for all that would Agamemnon winmy heart, not until he satisfies mein full for all my heartfelt bitter pain.I'll never take as wife any daughterof Agamemnon, son of Atreus,not even if her beauty rivals that of golden Aphrodite, or her skill in crafts equals bright-eyed Athena's. I will not marry her. Let him selectanother Achaean, someone like himself,a more prestigious king than me. For me,if the gods keep me safe and I get home, Peleus himself will find me a wife.There are plenty of Achaean womenin Hellas and in Phthia—daughters of lords,men who govern cities. From them I'll choose the one I want to make my cherished wife. My heart has often felt a strong desireto take a woman there as my own wife,someone suitable for marriage, to enjoythe riches which old Peleus has acquired. Life is worth more to me than all the wealththey say was stored in well-built Ilionsome time ago, when they were still at peace,before the sons of Achaea came, more than all the treasures of the archer, Phoebus Apollo, stacked on the stone floor in rocky Pytho. Men can steal cattle,fat sheep, get tripods, herds of sorrel horses.But no man gets his life back, not by theftor plunder, once it has flown out from him,passed beyond the barrier of his teeth.My goddess mother, silver-footed Thetis, has said two fates may bring about my death.If I remain here, continuing the fightagainst the Trojans' city, that means I won't be going home, but my glory will never die. But if I go back home,my fame will die, though my life will lasta long time—death will not end it quickly.And so I encourage all the rest of youto sail back home. You'll not attain your goal,steep Ilion, because far-seeing Zeus shields that city with his hand. Its people have confidence in that. Thus, you should go.Report this message to Achaean leaders—that's the privilege of senior men—their minds must come up with some better planto save the Achaean fleet and armybeside the hollow ships. The one they've gotwon't work, since anger still keeps me away.Let Phoenix stay here with me, sleep here,so tomorrow he may join our voyageto his dear native land, if that's his wish.For I will not take him back by force."
Ajax and Achilles argue. Explain each hero’s arguments. Who has the stronger case? Explain. Is Achilles being heroic in your opinion? Explain.
"Noble son of Laertes, resourceful Odysseus, let's be off. I don't think we'll bring this talkto a successful end, not on this trip. We must report this news, though it's not good, to the Danaans waiting to receive it. For Achilles has turned his great spirit into something savage in his chest. He's cruel and doesn't care for friendship of his comrades, how we honoured himabove all others there beside the ships. He has no pity. Any man acceptsreparations for a murdered son or brother.The man who killed them pays a large amountto stay there in his own community. The other man's angry heart and spiritare checked, once he takes the compensation.But with you, gods have put inside your chestunchanging evil passions, and all thisover a single girl. Now we are offeringseven of the best we have and much more. You should turn your passion into kindness,the hospitality of your own house. For we are guests here under your own roof, chosen from the Argive host. We believe that we, of all Achaeans, are the onesmost dear to you, your closest friends, far more so than all the others."
Swift-footed Achilles then said in reply:
"Ajax, noble son of Telamon, your people's leader,everything you say matches what I feel. But my heart chokes with rage when I recallhow that son of Atreus behaved towards me with contempt, as if he were dishonoringsome vagrant. But you'd better go, take back 820this message—I shall not concern myselfwith bloody war until lord Hector, murderous son of Priam, comes againstthe huts and sea ships of the Myrmidons, killing Achaean soldiers as he goes,until he starts to burn our ships with fire. I think that Hector will be held in checkaround my hut, around my own black ship, for all his eagerness to battle on."
The Iliad-“Peace Offerings to Achilles” Book 9-20pts
Agamemnon reluctantly agrees to bribe Achilles to return to battle. List the gifts he offers and the one condition that he attaches. Is this out of character? Explain.
"Mighty son of Atreus, Agamemnon,king of men, I'll begin and end my speechwith you, for you are lord of many men.Zeus gave you sceptre and laws to rule them.Thus, you, above all, should speak and listen, then act upon what other men may say, if their spirit prompts them to speak well.You'll get the credit for what they begin.So I'll say what seems to me the best advice.No one else has set out a better schemethan the one which I've been mulling overa long time now, ever since you, my lord,made Achilles angry by taking backthat young girl Briseis from his hut,against my judgment. Repeatedly,I urged you not to do it. But then you, surrendering to your arrogant spirit,shamed our strongest man, honoured by the gods. You still have that prize you took. So now let's thinkhow we may make amends, win him back with giftsand gracious speeches, and be friends once more."
Agamemnon, king of men, then answered Nestor:
"Old man, you expose my folly justly.I was deluded. I don't deny that.The man whom Zeus loves in his heart is worth whole armies. And this man Zeus now honours by destroying an army of Achaeans.Since my delusion made me followmy mistaken feelings, I'm now willingto make amends, to give in recompense immense treasures. I'll list these rich gifts in presence of you all—seven tripodswhich fire has not yet touched, ten gold talents,twenty shining cauldrons, twelve strong horseswhose speed has triumphed and earned them prizes.A man who has as much as I have won from racing these sure-footed animalswould not be poor, or lack possessions,or need precious gold. And then I'll give himseven women of Lesbos, skilled in crafts,whom I chose for myself when he capturedwell-built Lesbos. They surpass all women for their beauty. These I shall present to him.With them the one I seized from him, Briseis,daughter of Briseus. I'll solemnly swearI never once went up into her bed or had sex with her, as is men's custom,where men and women are concerned.All these things he will receive immediately.If gods grant we destroy Priam's great city,when we Achaeans allocate the spoils,let him come and load his ship with gold,with bronze, as much as he desires. He may choosetwenty Trojan women for himself,the loveliest after Argive Helen. If we get back to the rich land of Argos, he can then become my son-in-law.I'll honour him just as I do Orestes,my son, whom I dearly love. He's being raisedin great prosperity. In my well-built home,I have three daughters—Chrysothemis,Iphianessa and Laodice.He can take whichever one he choosesback home as his wife to Peleus' houseand pay no bridal gift. I'll give much more to bring about our reconciliation, a dowry bigger than any man so farhas ever handed over with his daughter.I'll give him seven populous cities,Cardamyle, Enope, grassy Hire, holy Pherae, fertile Antheia,lovely Aepea, and vine-rich Pedasus,all near the sea, beside sandy Pylos.People living in these places own a lot,many sheep and cattle. They will honour him and give him gifts, as if he were a god. Under his laws and sceptre they'll do well.I shall give all this if he will abatehis anger. Let him concede. Only Hadesis totally relentless and unyielding.That's why of all the gods, he's the onemen hate the most. And let him acknowledgemy authority, for I'm the greater king. In age I can claim to be his senior."
What is used to persuade Achilles to return besides the gifts? What aspect of his personality is Odysseus appealing to? What examples does Achilles offer to explain his rage towards Agamemnon? Provide a line that describes Achilles explaining his fate.
If you will hear the list, then I'll repeatwhat Agamemnon has promised to you.All gifts are in his huts—seven tripodswhich fire has not yet touched, ten gold talents,twenty shining cauldrons, twelve strong horseswhose speed has triumphed, earned them prizes—a man who's won as much as Agamemnonfrom racing these sure-footed animalswould not be poor or lack possessionsor precious gold. Then he will add to thisseven women of Lesbos, skilled in crafts, whom he chose for himself when you capturedwell-built Lesbos. They surpass all womenfor their beauty. These he will present to you,with them the one he seized from you, Briseis, daughter of Briseus. He'll solemnly swear he never once went up into her bedor had sex with her, as is men's custom,where men and women are concerned.All these things you will receive immediately.If gods grant that we destroy Priam's great city,when we Achaeans allocate the spoils,you may come and load your ship with gold,with bronze, as much as you desire. You may choose twenty Trojan women for yourself, the loveliest after Argive Helen. If we get back to the rich land of Argos,you can then become his son-in-law.He'll honour you just as he does Orestes,his son, whom he dearly loves. He's being raisedin great prosperity. In his well-built homehe has three daughters—Chrysothemis,Iphianessa, and Laodice.You can take whichever one you chooseback home as your wife to Peleus' houseand pay no bridal gift. He'll give much more to bring about your reconciliation,a dowry bigger than any man so farhas ever handed over with his daughter.He'll give you seven populous cities,Cardamyle, Enope, grassy Hire,holy Pherae, fertile Antheia,lovely Aepea, and vine-rich Pedasus,all near the sea, beside sandy Pylos.People living in these places possessmany sheep and cattle and will honour you and give you gifts, as if you were a god.Under your laws and sceptre they'll do well.He will give all this, if you will abateyour anger. But if your heart still resents Atreus' son and his gifts, then take pityon all Achaeans, our exhausted soldiers. They will pay you honours like a god.Among them you'll earn enormous glory,for now you might kill Hector, who may well approach you—he's so obsessed with slaughter, he thinks there's not a warrior his equal among Danaans brought here in our ships."
But mighty Agamemnon, Atreus' son, in his arrogance, seized back from me the prize which he awarded. Tell him that.Repeat in public everything I say,so other Achaeans will grow angry, if he, still clothed in shamelessness, hopesat any time to deceive some Argive.Cur that he is, he doesn't dare confront meface to face. I'll discuss no plans with him,no actions. He cheated me, betrayed me.His words will cheat no more. To hell with him. Let him march to his death by his own road, for Counsellor Zeus has stolen his wits.I hate his gifts. And he's not worth a damn.Not even if he gave me ten times, no, twenty times more than all he owns right now,or will possess in future, not even all the wealth amassed in Orchomenus,or Egyptian Thebes, where huge treasures sitpiled up in houses—that city of gates,one hundred of them, through each can ride two hundred men, horses and chariots all together—not even if he gave megifts as numerous as grains of sandbeside the sea or particles of dust,not for all that would Agamemnon winmy heart, not until he satisfies mein full for all my heartfelt bitter pain.I'll never take as wife any daughterof Agamemnon, son of Atreus,not even if her beauty rivals that of golden Aphrodite, or her skill in crafts equals bright-eyed Athena's. I will not marry her. Let him selectanother Achaean, someone like himself,a more prestigious king than me. For me,if the gods keep me safe and I get home, Peleus himself will find me a wife.There are plenty of Achaean womenin Hellas and in Phthia—daughters of lords,men who govern cities. From them I'll choose the one I want to make my cherished wife. My heart has often felt a strong desireto take a woman there as my own wife,someone suitable for marriage, to enjoythe riches which old Peleus has acquired. Life is worth more to me than all the wealththey say was stored in well-built Ilionsome time ago, when they were still at peace,before the sons of Achaea came, more than all the treasures of the archer, Phoebus Apollo, stacked on the stone floor in rocky Pytho. Men can steal cattle,fat sheep, get tripods, herds of sorrel horses.But no man gets his life back, not by theftor plunder, once it has flown out from him,passed beyond the barrier of his teeth.My goddess mother, silver-footed Thetis, has said two fates may bring about my death.If I remain here, continuing the fightagainst the Trojans' city, that means I won't be going home, but my glory will never die. But if I go back home,my fame will die, though my life will lasta long time—death will not end it quickly.And so I encourage all the rest of youto sail back home. You'll not attain your goal,steep Ilion, because far-seeing Zeus shields that city with his hand. Its people have confidence in that. Thus, you should go.Report this message to Achaean leaders—that's the privilege of senior men—their minds must come up with some better planto save the Achaean fleet and armybeside the hollow ships. The one they've gotwon't work, since anger still keeps me away.Let Phoenix stay here with me, sleep here,so tomorrow he may join our voyageto his dear native land, if that's his wish.For I will not take him back by force."
Ajax and Achilles argue. Explain each hero’s arguments. Who has the stronger case? Explain. Is Achilles being heroic in your opinion? Explain.
"Noble son of Laertes, resourceful Odysseus, let's be off. I don't think we'll bring this talkto a successful end, not on this trip. We must report this news, though it's not good, to the Danaans waiting to receive it. For Achilles has turned his great spirit into something savage in his chest. He's cruel and doesn't care for friendship of his comrades, how we honoured himabove all others there beside the ships. He has no pity. Any man acceptsreparations for a murdered son or brother.The man who killed them pays a large amountto stay there in his own community. The other man's angry heart and spiritare checked, once he takes the compensation.But with you, gods have put inside your chestunchanging evil passions, and all thisover a single girl. Now we are offeringseven of the best we have and much more. You should turn your passion into kindness,the hospitality of your own house. For we are guests here under your own roof, chosen from the Argive host. We believe that we, of all Achaeans, are the onesmost dear to you, your closest friends, far more so than all the others."
Swift-footed Achilles then said in reply:
"Ajax, noble son of Telamon, your people's leader,everything you say matches what I feel. But my heart chokes with rage when I recallhow that son of Atreus behaved towards me with contempt, as if he were dishonoringsome vagrant. But you'd better go, take back 820this message—I shall not concern myselfwith bloody war until lord Hector, murderous son of Priam, comes againstthe huts and sea ships of the Myrmidons, killing Achaean soldiers as he goes,until he starts to burn our ships with fire. I think that Hector will be held in checkaround my hut, around my own black ship, for all his eagerness to battle on."
Friday, May 16, 2008
HW for Monday
Students are to complete the following assignment for Monday:
The Iliad-Book 6 (20pts)
“Hector and Andromache”
Why is Menelaus ridiculed by Agamemnon in this scene? Do you think he made the right decision? Explain. Is this heroic to you? To the Greeks? Explain.
"Take me alive, son of Atreus—you'll getgood ransom. My father is a wealthy man,owns lots of things—bronze, silver, well-worked iron.So he'll give you a splendid ransom,if he learns I'm by Achaean ships, alive."
Adrestus pleaded. Menelaus' heart in his chest was moved.He was about to hand Adrestus to his attendant, to take back captive to the fast Achaean ships.
But then Agamemnon came running up to him,sharply criticizing Menelaus:
"Menelaus, you soft-hearted man,why are you sparing men's lives like this?In your own home, Trojans treated youexceptionally well, did they not?So don't let any one of them evadea terrible destruction at our hands—not even the young child still carried in his mother's belly. Let no one escape. Let everyone in Troy be slaughtered,without pity, without leaving any trace."
With these words, by this appeal to justice,he changed his brother's mind. So Menelausshoved heroic Adrestus away from him. Mighty Agamemnon then speared him in the side. Adrestus fell onto his back. The son of Atreus placed his heel down on his chest and pulled the ash spear out.
Explain the significance of the dialogue between Hector, Paris, and Helen. How does Homer portray each character?
"Paris, you're a worthless man. It's quite wrong of you to nurse that angerin your heart, while men are being destroyed,fighting round the city, its steep walls.It's because of you the sounds of warfarecatch fire round our city. You would fight any man you saw avoiding battle, fleeing war's brutality. So up with you,or soon our city will go up in smoke, with fire destroying everything."
Godlike Alexander then replied:
"Hector, your rebuke is not unfair, without reason. So I'll speak plainly. Listen and remember what I'm saying.I'm not sitting in my bedroom hereout of anger or spite against the Trojans. I want to grieve. Just now my wife urged me,using gentle words, to rouse myself to fight. And personally I think that would be best. For victory shifts from one man to another. Now, wait here while I put on battle armour. Or go and I'll come later. I'll catch up with you."
Hector of the shining helmet did not reply.
Helen spoke to Hector with soothing words:
"Hector, you are my brother, and I'm a horrible, conniving bitch. I wish that on that day my mother bore mesome evil wind had come, carried me away,and swept me off, up into the mountains, or into waves of the tumbling, crashing sea, then I would have died before this happened.But since gods have ordained these evil things, I wish I'd been wife to a better man, someone sensitive to others' insults, with feeling for his many shameful acts.This husband of mine has no sense nowand won't acquire any in the future. I expect he'll get from that what he deserves. But come in, sit on this chair, my brother, since this trouble really weighs upon your mind—all because I was a bitch—because of thatand Paris' folly, Zeus gives us an evil fate,so we may be subjects for men's songsin generations yet to come."
Great Hector of the shining helmet answered Helen:
"Don't ask me to sit down, Helen. You're kind, but you won't persuade me. For my heart's on fireto help the Trojans, who miss me greatly when I'm gone.But you must rouse Paris, and he, too, should hurry, so he can catch up with me inside the city. I'm going home, to visit my dear wifeand infant son, for I've no idea whether I'll be coming back to them again, or if the gods will kill me at Achaean hands."
What does the interaction between Hector and Andromache suggest about what is valuable in the lives of men and women at this time? What does it suggest about relationships between spouses at this time? Offer specific examples from the text.
With her came the nurse,holding at her breast their happy infant child, well-loved son of Hector, like a beautiful star.Hector had named him Scamandrius, but others called him Astyanax, lord of the city,because Hector was Troy's only guardian. Hector looked at his son in silence, with a smile.Andromache stood close to him, weeping.
Taking Hector by the hand, she spoke to him.
"My dear husband, your warlike spirit will be your death. You've no compassionfor your infant child, for me, your sad wife, who before long will be your widow.For soon the Achaeans will attack you, all together, and cut you down. As for me, it would be better, if I'm to lose you,to be buried in the ground. For then I'll haveno other comfort, once you meet your death,except my sorrow. I have no father,no dear mother. For lord Achilles killed my father, when he wiped out Thebe,city with high gates, slaying Eëtion. But he didn't strip his corpse—his heartfelt too much shame for that. So he burned him in his finely decorated armourand raised a burial mound above the ashes.Mountain nymphs, daughters of aegis-bearing Zeus, planted elm trees all around his body.I had seven brothers in my home.All went down to Hades in one day, for swift-footed lord Achilles killed them all,while they were guarding their shambling oxen 520and their white shining sheep. As for my mother,who ruled wooded Thebe-under-Placus, he brought her here with all his other spoils.Then he released her for a massive ransom.But archer goddess Artemis then killed herin her father's house. So, Hector, you are now my father, noble mother, brother, and my protecting husband. So pity me. Stay here in this tower. Don't orphan your childand make me a widow. Place men by the fig tree, where the city is most vulnerable, the wall most easily scaled. Three times their best men have come there to attack, led by the two Ajaxes, the sons of Atreus,famous Idomeneus, and Diomedes,Tydeus' courageous son, incited to itby someone well versed in prophec y or by their own hearts' inclination."
Great Hector of the shining helmet answered her:
"Wife, all this concerns me, too. But I'd be disgraced, dreadfully shamed among Trojan menand Trojan women in their trailing gowns, if I should, like a coward, slink away from war.My heart will never prompt me to do that, for I have learned always to be brave, to fight alongside Trojans at the front, striving to win fame for father and myself. My heart and mind know well the day is comingwhen sacred Ilion will be destroyed,along with Priam of the fine ash spear and Priam's people. But what pains me mostabout these future sorrows is not so much the Trojans, Hecuba, or king Priam, or even my many noble brothers,who'll fall down in the dust, slaughteredby their enemies. My pain concerns you, when one of the bronze-clad Achaeansleads you off in tears, ends your days of freedom.If then you come to Argos as a slave,working the loom for some other woman, fetching water from Hyperia or Messeis,against your will, forced by powerful Fate, then someone, seeing you as you weepmay well say: 'That woman is Hector's wife.He was the finest warrior in battle of all horse-taming Trojans in that war when they fought for Troy.' Someone will say that,and it will bring still more grief to you,to be without such a man to save youfrom days of servitude. May I lie dead, hidden deep under a burial mound, before I hear about your screaming, as you are dragged away."
With these words,glorious Hector stretched his hands out for his son.The boy immediately shrank back against the breastof the finely girdled nurse, crying out in terror to see his own dear father, scared at the sight of bronze, the horse-hair plume nodding fearfully from his helmet top. The child's loving father laughed, his noble mother, too. Glorious Hector pulled the glittering helmet off and set it on the ground. Then he kissed his dear sonand held him in his arms. He prayed aloud to Zeus and the rest of the immortals.
"Zeus, all you other gods, grant that this child, my son, may become, like me, pre-eminent among the Trojans, as strong and brave as me. Grant that he may ruleTroy with strength. May people someday say, as he returns from war, 'This man is far better than his father.' May he carry backbloody spoils from his slaughtered enemy, making his mother's heart rejoice."
He placed his son in the hands of his dear wife. She embraced the child on her sweet breast, smilingthrough her tears. Observing her, Hector felt compassion.He took her hand, then spoke to her.
"My dearest wife, don't let your heart be sad on my account. No man will throw me down to Hades before my destined time. I tell you this—no one escapes his fate, not the coward, nor the brave man, from the moment of his birth. So you should go into the house, keep busywith your own work, with your loom and wool, telling your servants to set about their tasks.War will be every man's concern, especially mine, of all those who live in Troy."
The Iliad-Book 6 (20pts)
“Hector and Andromache”
Why is Menelaus ridiculed by Agamemnon in this scene? Do you think he made the right decision? Explain. Is this heroic to you? To the Greeks? Explain.
"Take me alive, son of Atreus—you'll getgood ransom. My father is a wealthy man,owns lots of things—bronze, silver, well-worked iron.So he'll give you a splendid ransom,if he learns I'm by Achaean ships, alive."
Adrestus pleaded. Menelaus' heart in his chest was moved.He was about to hand Adrestus to his attendant, to take back captive to the fast Achaean ships.
But then Agamemnon came running up to him,sharply criticizing Menelaus:
"Menelaus, you soft-hearted man,why are you sparing men's lives like this?In your own home, Trojans treated youexceptionally well, did they not?So don't let any one of them evadea terrible destruction at our hands—not even the young child still carried in his mother's belly. Let no one escape. Let everyone in Troy be slaughtered,without pity, without leaving any trace."
With these words, by this appeal to justice,he changed his brother's mind. So Menelausshoved heroic Adrestus away from him. Mighty Agamemnon then speared him in the side. Adrestus fell onto his back. The son of Atreus placed his heel down on his chest and pulled the ash spear out.
Explain the significance of the dialogue between Hector, Paris, and Helen. How does Homer portray each character?
"Paris, you're a worthless man. It's quite wrong of you to nurse that angerin your heart, while men are being destroyed,fighting round the city, its steep walls.It's because of you the sounds of warfarecatch fire round our city. You would fight any man you saw avoiding battle, fleeing war's brutality. So up with you,or soon our city will go up in smoke, with fire destroying everything."
Godlike Alexander then replied:
"Hector, your rebuke is not unfair, without reason. So I'll speak plainly. Listen and remember what I'm saying.I'm not sitting in my bedroom hereout of anger or spite against the Trojans. I want to grieve. Just now my wife urged me,using gentle words, to rouse myself to fight. And personally I think that would be best. For victory shifts from one man to another. Now, wait here while I put on battle armour. Or go and I'll come later. I'll catch up with you."
Hector of the shining helmet did not reply.
Helen spoke to Hector with soothing words:
"Hector, you are my brother, and I'm a horrible, conniving bitch. I wish that on that day my mother bore mesome evil wind had come, carried me away,and swept me off, up into the mountains, or into waves of the tumbling, crashing sea, then I would have died before this happened.But since gods have ordained these evil things, I wish I'd been wife to a better man, someone sensitive to others' insults, with feeling for his many shameful acts.This husband of mine has no sense nowand won't acquire any in the future. I expect he'll get from that what he deserves. But come in, sit on this chair, my brother, since this trouble really weighs upon your mind—all because I was a bitch—because of thatand Paris' folly, Zeus gives us an evil fate,so we may be subjects for men's songsin generations yet to come."
Great Hector of the shining helmet answered Helen:
"Don't ask me to sit down, Helen. You're kind, but you won't persuade me. For my heart's on fireto help the Trojans, who miss me greatly when I'm gone.But you must rouse Paris, and he, too, should hurry, so he can catch up with me inside the city. I'm going home, to visit my dear wifeand infant son, for I've no idea whether I'll be coming back to them again, or if the gods will kill me at Achaean hands."
What does the interaction between Hector and Andromache suggest about what is valuable in the lives of men and women at this time? What does it suggest about relationships between spouses at this time? Offer specific examples from the text.
With her came the nurse,holding at her breast their happy infant child, well-loved son of Hector, like a beautiful star.Hector had named him Scamandrius, but others called him Astyanax, lord of the city,because Hector was Troy's only guardian. Hector looked at his son in silence, with a smile.Andromache stood close to him, weeping.
Taking Hector by the hand, she spoke to him.
"My dear husband, your warlike spirit will be your death. You've no compassionfor your infant child, for me, your sad wife, who before long will be your widow.For soon the Achaeans will attack you, all together, and cut you down. As for me, it would be better, if I'm to lose you,to be buried in the ground. For then I'll haveno other comfort, once you meet your death,except my sorrow. I have no father,no dear mother. For lord Achilles killed my father, when he wiped out Thebe,city with high gates, slaying Eëtion. But he didn't strip his corpse—his heartfelt too much shame for that. So he burned him in his finely decorated armourand raised a burial mound above the ashes.Mountain nymphs, daughters of aegis-bearing Zeus, planted elm trees all around his body.I had seven brothers in my home.All went down to Hades in one day, for swift-footed lord Achilles killed them all,while they were guarding their shambling oxen 520and their white shining sheep. As for my mother,who ruled wooded Thebe-under-Placus, he brought her here with all his other spoils.Then he released her for a massive ransom.But archer goddess Artemis then killed herin her father's house. So, Hector, you are now my father, noble mother, brother, and my protecting husband. So pity me. Stay here in this tower. Don't orphan your childand make me a widow. Place men by the fig tree, where the city is most vulnerable, the wall most easily scaled. Three times their best men have come there to attack, led by the two Ajaxes, the sons of Atreus,famous Idomeneus, and Diomedes,Tydeus' courageous son, incited to itby someone well versed in prophec y or by their own hearts' inclination."
Great Hector of the shining helmet answered her:
"Wife, all this concerns me, too. But I'd be disgraced, dreadfully shamed among Trojan menand Trojan women in their trailing gowns, if I should, like a coward, slink away from war.My heart will never prompt me to do that, for I have learned always to be brave, to fight alongside Trojans at the front, striving to win fame for father and myself. My heart and mind know well the day is comingwhen sacred Ilion will be destroyed,along with Priam of the fine ash spear and Priam's people. But what pains me mostabout these future sorrows is not so much the Trojans, Hecuba, or king Priam, or even my many noble brothers,who'll fall down in the dust, slaughteredby their enemies. My pain concerns you, when one of the bronze-clad Achaeansleads you off in tears, ends your days of freedom.If then you come to Argos as a slave,working the loom for some other woman, fetching water from Hyperia or Messeis,against your will, forced by powerful Fate, then someone, seeing you as you weepmay well say: 'That woman is Hector's wife.He was the finest warrior in battle of all horse-taming Trojans in that war when they fought for Troy.' Someone will say that,and it will bring still more grief to you,to be without such a man to save youfrom days of servitude. May I lie dead, hidden deep under a burial mound, before I hear about your screaming, as you are dragged away."
With these words,glorious Hector stretched his hands out for his son.The boy immediately shrank back against the breastof the finely girdled nurse, crying out in terror to see his own dear father, scared at the sight of bronze, the horse-hair plume nodding fearfully from his helmet top. The child's loving father laughed, his noble mother, too. Glorious Hector pulled the glittering helmet off and set it on the ground. Then he kissed his dear sonand held him in his arms. He prayed aloud to Zeus and the rest of the immortals.
"Zeus, all you other gods, grant that this child, my son, may become, like me, pre-eminent among the Trojans, as strong and brave as me. Grant that he may ruleTroy with strength. May people someday say, as he returns from war, 'This man is far better than his father.' May he carry backbloody spoils from his slaughtered enemy, making his mother's heart rejoice."
He placed his son in the hands of his dear wife. She embraced the child on her sweet breast, smilingthrough her tears. Observing her, Hector felt compassion.He took her hand, then spoke to her.
"My dearest wife, don't let your heart be sad on my account. No man will throw me down to Hades before my destined time. I tell you this—no one escapes his fate, not the coward, nor the brave man, from the moment of his birth. So you should go into the house, keep busywith your own work, with your loom and wool, telling your servants to set about their tasks.War will be every man's concern, especially mine, of all those who live in Troy."
Monday, May 12, 2008
HW for Thursday 5/15
Students are to complete the following assignment:
The Iliad-Book 5 20pts
Book 5 chronicles the first Aristeia in The Iliad. Explain why Diomedes is capable in this scene. What does Athena ask of Ares and why?
Then Pallas Athena gave Diomedes, son of Tydeus, strength and courage, so among all Argives, he'd stand out and win heroic glory.She made his helmet blaze with tireless flames,his shield as well—like a late star in summerwhich shines especially bright, newly risen from its bathin Ocean's streams. Around his head and shouldersthe goddess put a fiery glow, then drove him forward, right into the middle of the strife, the killing zone,where most warriors fight.
Then Athena, eyes glittering, took her brother, headstrong Ares, by the hand, [30]and said to him:
"Ares, Ares, insatiable man-killer,destroyer of cities, why don't we leaveTrojans and Achaeans to fight it out?Father Zeus will make one group victorious.Let's withdraw, avoiding Zeus' anger."
Explain the first Homeric simile about Diomedes. Why is it unclear which side he is fighting on? What gift does Athena give Diomedes? What is her reason for doing this? What does this tell you about the nature of the gods?
Thus these men kept toiling in the battle frenzy.As for Diomedes, you couldn't tell where he belonged, whether among the Trojans or Achaeans. For he rushed across the plain like a swollen river,like a swift winter torrent bursting dikes—no dam put in its way can hold it back, 100no barrier of fruitful vineyards check its current, [90]as all at once it floods when storms from Zeus roar down.It knocks aside all fine things built by farmers,hard-working men. That's how the son of Tydeus drove the dense ranks of Trojans into mass confusion.For all their numbers they could not contain him. Lycaon's fine son saw Diomedes moving fast along the plain, pushing Trojan ranks in front of him,in complete disorder. He quickly bent his bow, taking aim at Diomedes. He shot an arrow 110 and hit him on his sculpted body armour, in the right shoulder. The sharp arrow went in there,kept going, and splattered blood down on the curving metal. [100]At this Lycaon's noble son gave out a noisy shout:
As Diomedes prayed, Pallas Athena heard.She put fresh strength into his legs and upper arms. 140Standing close by, she spoke. Her words had wings.
"Take courage, Diomedes, in this fight with Trojans.I've put your father's strength into your chest, that shield-bearing horseman's fearless power.And I've removed the filter from your eyeswhich covered them before, so now,you'll easily distinguish gods from men.If a god comes here and stands against you,don't offer to fight any deathless one, [130]except for Aphrodite, Zeus' daughter. 150If she fights, cut her with your sharp bronze."
As Diomedes prayed, Pallas Athena heard.She put fresh strength into his legs and upper arms. 140Standing close by, she spoke. Her words had wings.
"Take courage, Diomedes, in this fight with Trojans.I've put your father's strength into your chest, that shield-bearing horseman's fearless power.And I've removed the filter from your eyeswhich covered them before, so now,you'll easily distinguish gods from men.If a god comes here and stands against you,don't offer to fight any deathless one, [130]except for Aphrodite, Zeus' daughter. 150If she fights, cut her with your sharp bronze."
What heroic elements does Diomedes display in this section? What is expressed through his dialogues? Why is dialogue included during the battle?
Strong Diomedes, with a scowl, answered Sthenelus:
"Don't talk of moving back. For I know wellyou won't persuade me. By birth it's not in me to shirk war or seek refuge. My spirit's strong. 300 Nor am I keen to climb up in the chariot.I'll go to fight them as I am, on foot.Pallas Athena does not allow meto withdraw in fear. Their horses may be fast,but they'll not carry them both back again,away from us, even if one escapes.
Unperturbed, powerful Diomedes said to him: 340
"You're wrong. You haven't hit me. In my view, this matter won't end for the two of you,until one of you falls dead, and his bloodsatisfies in full hard warlike Ares."
That said, he threw his spear. Athena guided it[290]straight to Pandarus' nose, directly by the eyes. It smashed through his white teeth. The tireless bronze sliced through his tongue at its root, coming out his chin, right at the tip.
Examine Diomedes’ treatment of Aphrodite in this section. Why would this be considered not only acceptable but heroic?
But Diomedes with his ruthless bronze had gone [330]to run down Aphrodite—knowing she was not a god who could do much in battle, not one of thosewho control men's wars. She was no Athena, no goddess Strife, who destroys whole cities.He chased her through the crowded battle zone.When he met her, great-hearted Tydeus' soncharged, lunging with his sharp spear at Aphrodite.His weapon wounded her slim wrist, piercing the skin above her hand, right through her godlike robe, a garment the Graces had made for her themselves. 400 Immortal divine fluid then flowed out, ichor, which circulates only in the blessed gods. [340]They don't eat food or drink down gleaming wine.Hence, they lack blood, and men call them immortal. Aphrodite screamed wildly and let go of her son. But Phoebus Apollo caught him in his hands,then shielded him with a dark cloud, just in case some fast-riding Danaan threw a spear into his chest and took away his life. Then Diomedes, expert in war cries, shouted loudly:
"Daughter of Zeus, leave war and fights alone. Isn't it enough for you to fool around with feeble women? If you start loitering on the battlefield,[350]I think the war will make you shake with terror,even though you learn about it from a distance."
Explain the Homeric simile used for Diomedes on these pages. What is significant about the reference to Achilles? What does Athena want Diomedes to do next? Why? Examine the relationship between Zeus and Ares. Based on Diomedes’ actions in Book 5, explain whether or not you feel he is heroic based on today’s standards and your opinion. You must then explain why the Greeks feel he is heroic.
They reached that place where most of the bravest men were fighting, in a crowd by mighty Diomedes, tamer of horses,like lions who eat raw meat or wild boars whose strength is not easily exhausted. In that place Hera, white-armed goddess, stood up, looking just like Stentor,a great-hearted, loud-throated man, whose voice could shoutwith the strength of fifty men. Hera cried out:
"Shame on you, you Argive warriors.You're a disgrace, good only for display. When lord Achilles used to go to battle, the Trojans didn't dare to venture outbeyond the Dardanian gates. They fearedhis mighty spear. But now they're fighting well outside the city, by our hollow ships."
Ares
First he attacked Aphrodite and struck her on the wrist. Then he charged me, even me, like a god. But my quick feet took me away. If not, I'd be in lasting pain with the fearful dead,or have barely lived, wounded by bronze spears."
Scowling at him, cloud-gatherer Zeus replied:
"You hypocrite, don't sit there whining at me.Among the gods who live on Mount Olympus, you're the one I hate the most. For you love war, constant strife and battle.
The Iliad-Book 5 20pts
Book 5 chronicles the first Aristeia in The Iliad. Explain why Diomedes is capable in this scene. What does Athena ask of Ares and why?
Then Pallas Athena gave Diomedes, son of Tydeus, strength and courage, so among all Argives, he'd stand out and win heroic glory.She made his helmet blaze with tireless flames,his shield as well—like a late star in summerwhich shines especially bright, newly risen from its bathin Ocean's streams. Around his head and shouldersthe goddess put a fiery glow, then drove him forward, right into the middle of the strife, the killing zone,where most warriors fight.
Then Athena, eyes glittering, took her brother, headstrong Ares, by the hand, [30]and said to him:
"Ares, Ares, insatiable man-killer,destroyer of cities, why don't we leaveTrojans and Achaeans to fight it out?Father Zeus will make one group victorious.Let's withdraw, avoiding Zeus' anger."
Explain the first Homeric simile about Diomedes. Why is it unclear which side he is fighting on? What gift does Athena give Diomedes? What is her reason for doing this? What does this tell you about the nature of the gods?
Thus these men kept toiling in the battle frenzy.As for Diomedes, you couldn't tell where he belonged, whether among the Trojans or Achaeans. For he rushed across the plain like a swollen river,like a swift winter torrent bursting dikes—no dam put in its way can hold it back, 100no barrier of fruitful vineyards check its current, [90]as all at once it floods when storms from Zeus roar down.It knocks aside all fine things built by farmers,hard-working men. That's how the son of Tydeus drove the dense ranks of Trojans into mass confusion.For all their numbers they could not contain him. Lycaon's fine son saw Diomedes moving fast along the plain, pushing Trojan ranks in front of him,in complete disorder. He quickly bent his bow, taking aim at Diomedes. He shot an arrow 110 and hit him on his sculpted body armour, in the right shoulder. The sharp arrow went in there,kept going, and splattered blood down on the curving metal. [100]At this Lycaon's noble son gave out a noisy shout:
As Diomedes prayed, Pallas Athena heard.She put fresh strength into his legs and upper arms. 140Standing close by, she spoke. Her words had wings.
"Take courage, Diomedes, in this fight with Trojans.I've put your father's strength into your chest, that shield-bearing horseman's fearless power.And I've removed the filter from your eyeswhich covered them before, so now,you'll easily distinguish gods from men.If a god comes here and stands against you,don't offer to fight any deathless one, [130]except for Aphrodite, Zeus' daughter. 150If she fights, cut her with your sharp bronze."
As Diomedes prayed, Pallas Athena heard.She put fresh strength into his legs and upper arms. 140Standing close by, she spoke. Her words had wings.
"Take courage, Diomedes, in this fight with Trojans.I've put your father's strength into your chest, that shield-bearing horseman's fearless power.And I've removed the filter from your eyeswhich covered them before, so now,you'll easily distinguish gods from men.If a god comes here and stands against you,don't offer to fight any deathless one, [130]except for Aphrodite, Zeus' daughter. 150If she fights, cut her with your sharp bronze."
What heroic elements does Diomedes display in this section? What is expressed through his dialogues? Why is dialogue included during the battle?
Strong Diomedes, with a scowl, answered Sthenelus:
"Don't talk of moving back. For I know wellyou won't persuade me. By birth it's not in me to shirk war or seek refuge. My spirit's strong. 300 Nor am I keen to climb up in the chariot.I'll go to fight them as I am, on foot.Pallas Athena does not allow meto withdraw in fear. Their horses may be fast,but they'll not carry them both back again,away from us, even if one escapes.
Unperturbed, powerful Diomedes said to him: 340
"You're wrong. You haven't hit me. In my view, this matter won't end for the two of you,until one of you falls dead, and his bloodsatisfies in full hard warlike Ares."
That said, he threw his spear. Athena guided it[290]straight to Pandarus' nose, directly by the eyes. It smashed through his white teeth. The tireless bronze sliced through his tongue at its root, coming out his chin, right at the tip.
Examine Diomedes’ treatment of Aphrodite in this section. Why would this be considered not only acceptable but heroic?
But Diomedes with his ruthless bronze had gone [330]to run down Aphrodite—knowing she was not a god who could do much in battle, not one of thosewho control men's wars. She was no Athena, no goddess Strife, who destroys whole cities.He chased her through the crowded battle zone.When he met her, great-hearted Tydeus' soncharged, lunging with his sharp spear at Aphrodite.His weapon wounded her slim wrist, piercing the skin above her hand, right through her godlike robe, a garment the Graces had made for her themselves. 400 Immortal divine fluid then flowed out, ichor, which circulates only in the blessed gods. [340]They don't eat food or drink down gleaming wine.Hence, they lack blood, and men call them immortal. Aphrodite screamed wildly and let go of her son. But Phoebus Apollo caught him in his hands,then shielded him with a dark cloud, just in case some fast-riding Danaan threw a spear into his chest and took away his life. Then Diomedes, expert in war cries, shouted loudly:
"Daughter of Zeus, leave war and fights alone. Isn't it enough for you to fool around with feeble women? If you start loitering on the battlefield,[350]I think the war will make you shake with terror,even though you learn about it from a distance."
Explain the Homeric simile used for Diomedes on these pages. What is significant about the reference to Achilles? What does Athena want Diomedes to do next? Why? Examine the relationship between Zeus and Ares. Based on Diomedes’ actions in Book 5, explain whether or not you feel he is heroic based on today’s standards and your opinion. You must then explain why the Greeks feel he is heroic.
They reached that place where most of the bravest men were fighting, in a crowd by mighty Diomedes, tamer of horses,like lions who eat raw meat or wild boars whose strength is not easily exhausted. In that place Hera, white-armed goddess, stood up, looking just like Stentor,a great-hearted, loud-throated man, whose voice could shoutwith the strength of fifty men. Hera cried out:
"Shame on you, you Argive warriors.You're a disgrace, good only for display. When lord Achilles used to go to battle, the Trojans didn't dare to venture outbeyond the Dardanian gates. They fearedhis mighty spear. But now they're fighting well outside the city, by our hollow ships."
Ares
First he attacked Aphrodite and struck her on the wrist. Then he charged me, even me, like a god. But my quick feet took me away. If not, I'd be in lasting pain with the fearful dead,or have barely lived, wounded by bronze spears."
Scowling at him, cloud-gatherer Zeus replied:
"You hypocrite, don't sit there whining at me.Among the gods who live on Mount Olympus, you're the one I hate the most. For you love war, constant strife and battle.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
HW for Monday
Students are to complete the following assignment for Monday:
The Iliad
Books 3 & 4
20pts
Read the following pages and respond in complete sentences.
Book ThreeParis, Menelaus, and Helen
Lines-38-84
Examine the relationship between Paris and Hector on these pages. What specifically causes Hector’s anger towards his brother? Is this justified in your opinion? Explain.
Lines 153-196
Explain the emotions that Helen is feeling during this scene. What is causing this?
Lines 209-268
Helen describes several heroes on these pages. What words are used for the following heroes?
Odysseus
Ajax
How do these descriptions set each man apart?
How does she describe herself? Why does she do this?
Lines 361-506
On these pages Paris and Menelaus battle one-on-one in order to reach a resolution to the conflict. This scene could mean the end of the war. Why doesn’t it end the war? What does this say about the nature of the gods? Write a reaction to the actions of Paris and Helen in the closing scene of Book 3. How do you feel about each one of them?
Book FourThe Armies Clash
Lines 88-215
Explain how the truce ends. Who causes this and why?
Lines 505-585
This is the first battle scene in the story. What techniques does Homer use to make the massive assault personal to the reader? What cultural aspects are present in this scene? Give an example of repetition and explain why it is used.
The Iliad
Books 3 & 4
20pts
Read the following pages and respond in complete sentences.
Book ThreeParis, Menelaus, and Helen
Lines-38-84
Examine the relationship between Paris and Hector on these pages. What specifically causes Hector’s anger towards his brother? Is this justified in your opinion? Explain.
Lines 153-196
Explain the emotions that Helen is feeling during this scene. What is causing this?
Lines 209-268
Helen describes several heroes on these pages. What words are used for the following heroes?
Odysseus
Ajax
How do these descriptions set each man apart?
How does she describe herself? Why does she do this?
Lines 361-506
On these pages Paris and Menelaus battle one-on-one in order to reach a resolution to the conflict. This scene could mean the end of the war. Why doesn’t it end the war? What does this say about the nature of the gods? Write a reaction to the actions of Paris and Helen in the closing scene of Book 3. How do you feel about each one of them?
Book FourThe Armies Clash
Lines 88-215
Explain how the truce ends. Who causes this and why?
Lines 505-585
This is the first battle scene in the story. What techniques does Homer use to make the massive assault personal to the reader? What cultural aspects are present in this scene? Give an example of repetition and explain why it is used.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Due Wednesday 5/7
Students are to read Book 1 of The Iliad and complete the following assignment:
The Iliad
Book 1
“The Rage of Achilles”
20pts
What are the different layers of the conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles? How is Agamemnon forced to take the action he does relative to Achilles, and how is Achilles forced to respond as he does? How would each character’s actions be viewed today? Who do you support and why?
Reread lines 405-460 & 560-570 . Respond to both Achilles and his mother Thetis as they are presented on these pages. Explain what they do on these pages and also how this affects your opinion of them.
The Iliad
Book 1
“The Rage of Achilles”
20pts
What are the different layers of the conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles? How is Agamemnon forced to take the action he does relative to Achilles, and how is Achilles forced to respond as he does? How would each character’s actions be viewed today? Who do you support and why?
Reread lines 405-460 & 560-570 . Respond to both Achilles and his mother Thetis as they are presented on these pages. Explain what they do on these pages and also how this affects your opinion of them.
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