Why Did Homer Write About Achilles?

Achilles, the legendary hero of the Trojan War, is one of the most prominent figures in Greek mythology. According to Homer's epic poem, The Iliad, Achilles was the undefeated warrior who played a significant role in the Greek defeat of Troy. The early post-Homeric myths also attributed supernatural qualities to Achilles, including his physical invulnerability, which made him an indispensable soldier for the Greeks.

However, the story of Achilles is not solely about his victories and invincibility. It is also about his eventual downfall. One pivotal element in the narrative is Achilles' heel, a concept that has transcended time and become a cultural reference for a person's weakness or vulnerability.

Exploring Achilles' Death in The Iliad

The focus of Homer's epic is laid out in the opening line of the poem: the woes that resulted from the wrath of Achilles. It is worth considering why Homer chose to tell this particular story rather than others he may have written. While we know that the Iliad and the Odyssey survived, many other works of Homer may have been lost over time.

Both Achilles and Agamemnon are central characters in the narrative. They are not just named characters but embody the virtues and vices of leadership. While Agamemnon's story is more extensively explored in the Odyssey and in accounts by Pindar and Aeschylus, much of his aspect in the Iliad revolves around his disputes with Achilles, which eventually lead to the hero's death.

In the context of the Trojan War, Achilles and Agamemnon become archetypes of leadership and human failings. Achilles' pride and Agamemnon's selfishness are central themes that explore how personal conflicts within the leadership can affect the outcome of the war. Achilles' achilles' heel, a term that references his fatal weakness, is thus not just a specific physical vulnerability but a metaphor for his emotional downfall caused by hubris and jealousy.

The Cultural Significance of Achilles' Heel

The story of Achilles' heel has evolved beyond its origins in Greek mythology. The phrase "Achilles' heel" is now widely used in contemporary language to refer to a person's potential for failure or a vulnerability that can undo their success. This concept illustrates the idea that no one is invincible, and beneath the surface of eminence, there are often hidden weaknesses.

From a literary and cultural standpoint, Achilles' heel symbolizes the fallibility of human greatness. It serves as a reminder that even the most esteemed heroes have flaws and can be brought down by their own weaknesses. This narrative structure is essential in literature as it humanizes the hero and adds depth to the story, making it more relatable and profound.

Furthermore, the story of Achilles' heel continues to influence modern literature, philosophy, and media. In contemporary literature, it can be seen through characters who have significant strengths but are also plagued by their weaknesses. In philosophy, it challenges the concept of human perfection. In media, such as movies and television shows, Achilles' heel can become a dramatic arc that drives the plot forward, making characters more complex and realistic.

The Survival of Homer's Legacy

Despite the loss of many works by Homer, the Iliad and Odyssey have endured due to their profound themes and enduring characters. While the Iliad primarily highlights Achilles' journey from invincibility to his famous death, the Odyssey delves into the personal struggles and the challenges faced by Odysseus in his journey home. These stories not only stand out for their epic scope and heroism but also for their deep explorations of human nature, emotion, and resilience.

The survival of these works is a testament to the power of storytelling. Homer's writing addressed profound truths about human existence, virtues, and vices. These themes resonate across cultures and eras, making the Iliad and Odyssey timeless classics that continue to captivate readers and scholars alike.

In conclusion, while Homer may have written numerous stories that were lost, the tales of Achilles, Agamemnon, and the other Greek heroes that have survived are not mere historical accounts but living narratives that continue to shape our understanding of human nature and the forces that drive us.