Odysseus vs Achilles: Brain or Body? Throughout time, views and ideals change drastically—what was seen as crucial or even sacred in one generation can come to be disregarded or abandoned in the next. These shifts reflect what the people of that particular time period decided was important, as seen when comparing and contrasting Homer’s epics The Iliad and The Odyssey. In The Iliad, might is right, and physical strength—and sometimes even mindless brutality—is viewed as the most important and noble
Achilles Vs. Odysseus Achilles is the son of Peleus, who is the king of Myrmidon. He was the fearless, striking, and a substantial warrior of the army of Agamemnon in the Trojan war. In Greek mythology, Achilles is notorious for having a preference between a long and peaceful life, or a quick life that will guide him to eternal glory. He states that, “There are no covenants between sheep and wolves, nor between you and me” (Achilles). Achilles had a desire for glory, when it came to the battlefield
heroes of all time. Odysseus is famed for his arduous journey and his wit, while Achilles is best known for his invincibility and brute force. Neither would have survived in the other’s tale. Odysseus is far too much a man of thought, and would have spared Hector’s body from disgrace. Whereas Achilles, in Odysseus’ situation would have tried to kill all the beasts and monsters that were thrown at him. He would have died along with his men at the first fight. Odysseus and Achilles, from Fagles translation
Achilles Odysseus Homer's two central heroes, Odysseus and Achilles, are in many ways differing manifestations of the same themes. While Achilles' character is almost utterly consistent in his rage, pride, and near divinity, Odysseus' character is difficult to pin down to a single moral; though perhaps more human than Achilles, he remains more difficult to understand. Nevertheless, both heroes are defined not by their appearances, nor by the impressions they leave upon the minds of those around
The best known warriors from ancient Greek are comprised of Achilles and Odysseus. They both were fearsome warriors who fought for their country with dignity and honor. Also, the gods of high Olympus had close relationship with Achilles and Odysseus. This came into play many times when they were caught in the heap of battle, but the gods removed them safely out of harm’s way. Reviewing both Achilles and Odysseus from Homer’s, The Iliad, we can comprehend that although they may seem similar, their
In the odyssey, the poem’s ultimate position on death vs. life and glory vs. homecoming plays a big role in the leading character’s storyline. Odysseus, throughout the book is challenged with many obstacles that he must go through to get home. These obstacles in each island resemble his driven passion to get home to his kingdom. Achilles, the same leading character from the Iliad, is also presented in this poem to show the Greek view on glory. Ultimately, the book shows that glory is the engine
Rage vs. Wit (An analysis of the differences and similarities of Achilles and Odysseus in Homer’s two epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey) A hero is a person who is admired or idealized for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. There are heroes all around us each and everyday, and more than we know. They are around us not only physically, but in media as well. In just about every movie that has been produced, there is some sort of hero, or person who risks it all to right
Achilles vs. Odysseus The importance of the complex warriors, Achilles and Odysseus, in mythology is showed throughout the Iliad and the Odyssey. Their tendency to invite dangerous challenges and ruthlessness with dealing with their enemies makes for some of the most well known myths in Greco-Roman mythology. They set the highest standards for strength, courage, and tremendous skill for all other heroes. There are several similarities and differences between the two as well as their stories including
similarities to Achilles and the speech’s focus on the Greek value of timē (one’s honor or how one is perceived by others), to reveal the motivations and nature of Achilles. In book IX of the Iliad, Ajax, known primarily for his brute strength and martial prowess, delivers the speech Achilles finds most compelling. Conversely, Odysseus, although the most adept orator sent, is the least effective in convincing Achilles to rejoin the war. In my opinion, this is because while Odysseus uses a well-reasoned
Layton Spiers Larr English IV 2nd Period 22 September 2017 Throughout the societies from which ancient stories came, morals were valued and taught to keep everyday life functioning in a productive manner. Through the stages of British literature, the epic stories of Beowulf, “Gilgamesh”, The Iliad and The Odyssey show vast evidence of this. When showing loyalty in these societies, conflict and the concept of being a hero were very important elements. In the epics of Beowulf and “Gilgamesh”, conflict