Often, what makes a tale engaging is not a character who is admirable and good, but one who is profoundly …

The backdrop and crux of action in The Iliad is war. In a sense, it seems as if Homer is …

Part of what makes “The Iliad” a classic is the language Homer uses to express his ideas, so you could …

“The Iliad” emphasizes glory even if death comes with it. For instance, in Book IX, Achilles contemplates going home but …

The role the gods play in the war and the Greeks’ lives makes an interesting paper topic. Focus on how …

Examine the roles of women and men in ancient Greek society as depicted in the story. For instance, Book I …

Do you think Achilles is a tragic hero? See “Tragedy: the Basics” (packet 63). Look for examples of hubris on …

1. Which hero do you like best, Achilles, Hector, or some other? Why? What (if anything) makes Achilles a hero? …

1. How are Hector and Patroclus similar? Do you see any similarities in the behavior of Achilles and Priam? (Describe …

What do you think of Agamemnon’s apology (376-78)? Didn’t Achilles blame Zeus also (382)? Why do you think Achilles refuses …