Essay: The Iliad Focuses On Warrior Behavior In Ancient Time

Essaythe Iliadfocuses On The Behavior Of Warriors In Time Of Crisis An

Essay The Iliad focuses on the behavior of warriors in time of crisis and examines what each person owes to him- or herself and to the community. Compare the values in The Iliad with the values that people hold today. To what extent are dignity, pride, honor, glory, fame, and revenge still important? How do people achieve them today? Instructions Between 1,000–1,100 words in length Adhere to MLA style

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The Iliad, an epic poem attributed to Homer, offers profound insights into the behavior, values, and societal expectations of ancient Greek warriors during times of crisis. Its vivid portrayal of honor, pride, revenge, and glory reflects a worldview where personal reputation and communal duty are paramount. Comparing these ancient values with contemporary perspectives reveals both continuities and transformations in how individuals define and pursue dignity, respect, and achievement in modern society. This essay explores the core values depicted in The Iliad—such as honor, pride, and revenge—and examines their relevance today, analyzing how modern individuals pursue recognition and respect amidst complex social dynamics.

The Values in The Iliad: Honor, Pride, and Revenge

In The Iliad, honor is the foundation upon which warriors build their identities. Achilles, the central hero, is driven by a profound need to maintain his reputation among peers. His refusal to fight after being dishonored by Agamemnon underscores the importance of personal dignity. The warriors’ actions are motivated by a desire to attain everlasting fame through heroic deeds, which will secure their memory for generations. Pride, closely linked to honor, compels warriors to demonstrate superiority and valor, often leading to fierce combat and personal risk. Revenge is another central motif; it upholds the social order by restoring lost honor and punishing offenses, with the cycle of retaliation perpetuating violence and conflict.

These values reflect a collectivist society where individual actions serve to bolster communal reputation. The pursuit of glory—achieved through acts of bravery—serves both personal and societal interests, ensuring the warrior’s name endures beyond death. The concept of fame in The Iliad extends into the realm of the divine, with gods often intervening to promote or hinder mortal pursuits of honor and glory.

Contemporary Views: Dignity, Pride, and Achievement Today

Modern society continues to esteem dignity, pride, and achievement, but the ways in which these values are expressed have shifted considerably. Today, dignity is often associated with respecting oneself and others, emphasizing equality, human rights, and individual worth. Pride remains a vital component of personal identity, but it is more commonly linked to accomplishments in various fields such as science, arts, sports, and careers, rather than martial valor. The pursuit of fame and recognition has become complex, often mediated through social media platforms, public achievements, or professional accolades.

Unlike the heroic era of The Iliad, where reputation was achieved primarily through martial prowess, contemporary success can be attained through innovation, creativity, or social influence. Revenge, as a motive, has less social acceptance; instead, conflict resolution, dialogue, and legal frameworks are favored for settling disputes. Yet, the desire for acknowledgment and respect persists strongly, influencing individuals’ actions in personal, professional, and political spheres.

The Enduring Importance of Honor and Pride in Modern Life

Despite cultural and societal changes, the core values of honor and pride remain relevant today, albeit expressed differently. In professional settings, individuals seek recognition for their contributions, aiming to build reputation and trust. In the realm of social justice, defending dignity and standing against injustice serve as modern expressions of honor. Athletes, artists, and public figures often pursue fame and glory, driven by the desire to be remembered for their accomplishments. Moreover, personal relationships are increasingly rooted in mutual respect and dignity, emphasizing the importance of moral integrity.

In political contexts, leaders often seek to uphold national pride and reputation, recognizing that collective honor influences social cohesion and international standing. The desire for revenge, while less socially accepted, can manifest in legal actions, advocacy, or symbolic gestures designed to address grievances or restore dignity.

How Do People Today Achieve Dignity, Pride, and Glory?

In contemporary society, achievement and recognition are attained through diverse avenues. Education and professional excellence often lead to social respect and personal fulfillment. Media exposure and social networking allow individuals to showcase talents and gain validation from broader audiences. For many, accomplishments in humanitarian work, activism, or innovation contribute to a sense of purpose and societal respect.

Social media platforms, in particular, have democratized fame, enabling ordinary individuals to attain prominence through viral content, activism, or entrepreneurship. This modern pursuit of recognition reflects a shift from physical prowess to intellectual, creative, and social achievements as primary sources of honor and pride.

Furthermore, societal values emphasize moral integrity, kindness, and service, aligning with contemporary notions of dignity. Success is increasingly defined by positive impact and authentic self-expression, rather than solely by martial or heroic feats. Still, the underlying desire for acknowledgment and respect persists across cultural boundaries, illustrating the enduring human need for meaning and recognition.

Conclusion

The contrast between the values depicted in The Iliad and those observed in modern society highlights significant cultural shifts, yet some fundamental aspects remain constant. Honor, pride, and the pursuit of glory continue to motivate human behavior, though their expressions have adapted to changing social norms and technological advancements. While ancient warriors sought everlasting fame through combat, modern individuals often pursue recognition through innovation, achievement, and social influence. Both eras reveal humanity’s intrinsic desire for dignity, respect, and a meaningful legacy, demonstrating that these values are deeply rooted in the human experience across centuries.

References

• Bloom, Harold. The Iliad: A New Translation. Scribner, 2020.
• Falkner, David. Homer’s Iliad. Cambridge University Press, 2017.
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• Homer. The Iliad. Translated by Robert Fagle, W. W. Norton & Company, 2006.
• Kermode, Frank. The Epic that Never Dies: Homer's Iliad. Yale University Press, 2014.
• Lathrop, Gordon. The War of the Gods and the Myth of Homer's Iliad. Princeton University Press, 2018.
• Nietzsche, Friedrich. The Birth of Tragedy. Vintage, 1960.
• Sandel, Michael J. Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2009.
• Stewart, Andrew. The Odyssey: A Reader's Guide. Cambridge University Press, 2012.
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