Achilles and Odysseus: Their Ages and Feuds in Homer's Iliad

When discussing The Iliad by Homer, one of the seminal works of Western literature, the question of the ages of its principal warriors, particularly Achilles and Odysseus, often arises. However, it's important to approach these discussions with a nuanced understanding that doesn’t strictly adhere to contemporary conceptions of history and chronology.

Understanding the Perspective of The Iliad

In Homer's epic, the protagonist Achilles is described as a fine warrior-king, accomplished enough to be celebrated well before the start of the Trojan War. If Achilles later dies in the final year of the war, based on the timeline within the epic, he would be around 26 or 27 years old. This is a complex and layered narrative that transcends strict temporal constraints.

For the audience of Homer, the focus isn’t on precise dates or timelines. Instead, the emphasis lies on the creation of grand battle sequences and the portrayal of great heroes. These heroes often embody the legendary ancestors of the warlords and barons who make up the audience, thereby providing a connection to their own cultural and historical contexts.

Herodotus and the Historical Question

It's crucial to note that the reliability of the information presented in The Iliad is subject to scrutiny. Historian Herodotus, known for his detailed and often skeptical approach to historical accounts, viewed much of Homer's narrative as myth. Herodotus sought to disprove the historicity of Homer's version of the Trojan War, based on his own investigations and conclusions.

According to tradition, Achilles was quite young at the start of the war. Specifically, The Iliad covers only a few weeks of the war, with a significant portion of the narrative focusing on the period near Achilles' death. This timeframe allows for a more youthful depiction of the hero, emphasizing his youthfulness and the intensity of his rise to glory.

The Feud Between Achilles and Odysseus

While no direct fight between Achilles and Odysseus is described in The Iliad, it is often suggested that they had a quarrel, possibly at a feast. The dispute likely centered on the best approach to winning the war, either through force or by stratagems. This tension highlights the different personalities and approaches of the two heroes.

The traditional timeline places their ages during the war as follows: Achilles, at around 25, and Odysseus, approximately 37. This range could vary depending on the specific interpretation of the epic. Additionally, it's worth noting that Odysseus was known for his strategic prowess, having been entrusted with the task of leading the Greek forces after Agamemnon’s departure due to the quarrels over Briseis.

The age 25 for Achilles can be compared to a teenager who is physically mature but still somewhat youthful. This age range is significant for Holland (2003) who has suggested that Achilles’ youthfulness was a significant factor in his character. The age of 37 for Odysseus reflects a more seasoned warrior with a wealth of experience but still agile and cunning.

Given Odysseus’ status as a fine seer and politician, he was around 37 when the epic takes place—a time when he was at the height of his career. This age also reflects the wisdom and strategic insight necessary for leading a complex military campaign like the one against Troy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the ages of Achilles and Odysseus in The Iliad may seem speculative, they play a crucial role in shaping the characters and the narrative. The concept of youth and experience are central to the epic, highlighting the complexities of heroism and the roles of various warriors in the conflict. As with many epic works, the true value lies in the creative and symbolic representation of these historical figures, rather than their literal accuracy.

By understanding the cultural and mythic context of The Iliad, we can better appreciate the depth and significance of the characters and their interactions, making the epic a timeless and enriching piece of literature.

References:

Holland, T. (2003). The Birth of Poetry: From Homer to Virgil: An Essay on Oral Tradition and the Limits of Art. Herodotus. (440 BC). The Histories.