Introduction
Greek history is frequently discussed in many literary works, and Homer’s Iliad is probably the most famous and successful story about the Trojan War and its participants. In this epic poem, heroic motifs are determined by harsh social obligations and definite cultural beliefs, underlining the role of gods and supreme powers. Even though similar qualities like pride, bravery, and glory are present in both the Achaeans and the Greeks, characters, their development and impact are rather distinctive. Epic heroism is revealed through all 24 books of The Iliad, and each book contains new stories and conditions under which people and gods cooperate and demonstrate their priorities. In this essay, the analysis of two particular heroes, Priam and Agamemnon, will be introduced to investigate their lives through the prism of Homeric heroism. Compared to Agamemnon, who is described as a warrior and a king, Priam succeeds in performing his functions of a father and a king. The Iliad’s characters Priam and Agamemnon are the kings who possess such qualities as courage, conviction, and honor but develop them differently due to the influence of their family values and military companions.
Hero Context
Homer chooses heroism as a central theme for his poems, including The Iliad. The author shows that this quality may be inherent to gods, as well as humans, and its impact depends on a variety of internal and external factors (Iliad, 1: 1-8). The Trojan War is described as a severe challenge for all heroes in the poem and as the best chance for people to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and qualities. Regarding the fact that this war is between the Achaeans and the Trojans, the thought about the differences between these two groups cannot be ignored. Therefore, the context of the Homeric hero should be based on the comparison of Trojan and Greek values and their understanding of selflessness, honor, and glory. On the one hand, there are the Greeks who behave as per their wishes and demands, neglecting the existing beliefs. Instead of asking for support and encouragement from gods, one of the strongest Greeks, Achilles, asks his mother to punish his king, Agamemnon (Iliad, 1: 536-539). The arrogance of the Greeks is a dominant factor that is used to show their powers through real action and success.
On the other hand, there are the Trojans who follow the rules of gods and do not interfere with unnecessary battles. Achilles describes them as honorable men who are known for their non-interference without any specific cause (Iliad, 1: 198-206). Compared to the Greeks, who may be spoiled by their insolence and pride, the Trojans remain silent and cautious. Still, it seems that Homer does not want to leave the characters under the influence of the same qualities. Thus, the Trojans become strong, fast, noisy, and furious as soon as the enemy reaches their land (Iliad, 3: 1-10). In their turn, the Greek heroes cannot stay powerful and independent while they do not recognize their weaknesses and actual fears (Iliad, 3: 61-62). All the characters change during the conflicts they have to experience. Heroes should learn how to think and predict the outcomes of their decisions instead of merely act and win. Among a variety of qualities that are inherent to Homer’s heroes, the context is built around the kings’ reputation, courage, and honor in a family and during the war.
Characters’ Qualities in The Iliad
Priam and Agamemnon are the kings in Troy and Greece, respectively. However, these men fulfill different roles regarding their families (wives and children) and their companions in battles. Homer pays enough attention to the ways in how these characters can guide warriors, participate in conflicts, establish rules, and support relatives. Priam is an old man who does not possess considerable physical powers but gains respect due to his kindness, understanding, and peace-making (Iliad, 3: 211; 4: 25). At the same time, he sees the strong sides of his opponent, Agamemnon, and realizes that the latter’s warrior skills, stature, and martial grace are what Priam actually lacks (Iliad, 3: 221-222). Priam is a good father who never blames Helen for the losses of Troy and his personal experiences during the war. He does not put his personal interests or benefits above the needs of his family or his state. Agamemnon, on the contrary, is ready to put the lives of his warriors and friends at risk to achieve his goals as he is a leader, and his wants are equal to the wants of his people.
It is wrong to consider Priam as a good man only because of his supportiveness and mercy, as well as to believe that Agamemnon is a negative character due to his prevailing egoism. Both characters develop through the poem to make correct decisions and succeed as leaders. Priam can no longer be a good warrior and participate in battles side by side with his companions due to his old age (Iliad, 3: 378-383). However, his heroism is depicted in his readiness to sacrifice his son, Hector, in the name of Troy. He is confident in Hector’s skills and military experience to lead the troops and achieve victory. His reputation serves as a solid background for the king and the state. Agamemnon is known for his emotions governing his major decisions, like when he wants Briseis as compensation, which leads to a long-lasting conflict with Achilles (Iliad, 1: 423-425). Instead of thinking about the consequences for his state, he finds it justified to attack the Trojans to get revenge for his brother’s insult. He gains a reputation of an emotionally dependent warrior but never weak or doubting his abilities.
In The Iliad, all the heroes are honored by their people and supported by their gods. However, it is necessary to understand the difference between glory and honor because, in his book, Homer shows several times how glory (never honor) may be lost (Iliad, 2: 137-143). In his decision to go to the enemy’s camp and ask for the body of his dead son, Priam shows the highest level of honor (Iliad, 24: 622-625). Priam is not afraid to kneel before Achilles not as a king but as a father as the only way to obtain his understanding, which considerably changes the attitude of the latter toward the former. In comparison, Agamemnon, who never neglects his priorities as a king, cannot obtain sympathy from Achilles even after fighting against the same enemy. The honor of Priam and the honor of Agamemnon are two different things in the poem. Homer does not want to follow the same line for both characters, which makes them the two perfect examples of honorable leaders and heroes for their people.
Finally, any Homeric hero possesses enough courage to resist the enemy or to protect personal or social interests. Priam is brave to delegate his leadership responsibilities with his son and expect his people to accept his decision. His courage is also observed in his conversation with Achilles, during which both men are able to grieve and deal with a real state of affairs. Agamemnon’s brevity has another image and is properly described during the battles. The king is ready to take some risks to achieve positive results with time. Homer compares Agamemnon with a lion several times, and this animal’s courage is undeniable. Unlike Priam, who never combines courage and honor, the Achaean king is obsessed with victory as the only way to prove his personal achievements and the power of Greece. To win a battle means to win the honor, and defeat in the fight equals disgrace. All these qualities make Agamemnon a true hero for Greece and his companions, while Priam’s courage lies in forgiveness and compassion.
Conclusion
To understand how Homer saw heroes and distinguish them from gods or demi-gods, it is not enough to read the poem. It is more important to analyze each character through the prism of specific circumstances and personal factors. In this essay, the evaluation of Priam and Agamemnon shows that it is possible to be a hero and demonstrate different qualities. Agamemnon is a great king and a powerful warrior who never leaves his companions. He is strong enough to make quick and risky decisions, relying on his emotions and arrogance. Priam is a kind and loyal king whose social and family responsibilities strengthen his character. Although this man does not participate in battles, his honor and courage are noticeable in his decisions, words, and actions. However, despite the existing differences in styles and approaches, Priam and Agamemnon have many things in common, including their devotion to family relationships and the intention to protect their homes at any price.