Introduction

Briseis, a central figure in Homer's Iliad, is a tragic character whose life after the Trojan War has long been a subject of speculation and debate among scholars and enthusiasts of ancient Greek literature. While the Iliad provides a limited glimpse into her story, many questions remain unanswered. This article explores possible scenarios of Briseis's life post-Trojan War and examines the various fates that might have befallen her.

Briseis and the Trojan War

Briseis is a princess of Lyrnessus, a city allied with Troy. She was captured by the Greek warrior Achilles and became his concubine, a role she had to endure while witnessing the deaths of her family members and viewing the conflict from a Greek perspective.

The Departure of Briseis from Achilles' Tent

A famous image illustrating this moment captures Briseis's sadness and reluctance as she is escorted out of Achilles's tent, while the grieving hero looks away in anger. This scene underscores the emotional impact of Agamemnon's interference in their relationship.

Possible Fates of Briseis After the War

Despite the tragic turn of events during the Trojan War, several scenarios have been proposed regarding Briseis's life post-war. While none of these outcomes are particularly positive, they provide a framework for understanding her possible journey.

Scenario 1: With Neoptolemus

One of the more optimistic scenarios suggests that Briseis, along with Achilles's son Neoptolemus, returns to Greece and becomes Neoptolemus's concubine. She bears him several children, though personal trials and challenges persist. Eventually, Neoptolemus abandons her for Hermione, the daughter of Menelaus and Helen. She is then given to Helenus, a son of Priam who had survived the war and became an ally of Neoptolemus. She lives in Epirus until her death.

Scenario 2: With Neoptolemus as Wife

In another scenario, Briseis marries Neoptolemus and together they have children. However, tragedy strikes when Neoptolemus, driven by rage, kills her after learning she had an affair with his grandfather, Peleus. He then marries Hermione and goes to war with Orestes, who was previously betrothed to Hermione.

Scenario 3: With Neoptolemus in Epirus

In yet another narrative, Briseis returns to Greece with Neoptolemus and becomes his wife. They have children, but Neoptolemus dies in Delphi after being attacked by Orestes, who was seeking retribution for his father Agamemnon’s murder by Clytemnestra and Aegisthus. She subsequently marries Alcimus, a friend of Neoptolemus, and lives with him in Phthia until her death.

Returning to Troy or Becoming a Priestess

Another possible fate involves Briseis returning to Troy with Polyxena, Priam’s daughter, and becoming a priestess of Athena. Dedicated to serving the goddess and mourning the fallen Trojans, she helps Polyxena escape from being sacrificed at Achilles’s tomb. She eventually dies of old age in Troy.

Becoming a Slave in Ithaca

In another tragic ending, Briseis returns to Troy with Polyxena, but fate dictates a different path. She is claimed as a slave by Odysseus, who then tortures her, longing for Achilles. Unable to help Polyxena escape from her fateful sacrifice, she dies of grief in Ithaca.

Conclusion

While these scenarios offer a range of outcomes for Briseis after the Trojan War, none present a happily-ever-after story. The complexity and sadness of Briseis’s life reflect the broader themes of tragedy, loss, and destiny that permeate ancient Greek literature.