The Iliad, writing homework help: Glory and Honor

“The Iliad” emphasizes glory even if death comes with it. For instance, in Book IX, Achilles contemplates going home but decides to stay because leaving would cause a loss of fame. Similarly, you could write about how warfare seems to be the first choice for these characters rather than a last resort, that glory for these men comes from a heroic death. The meaning of “hero” in such context makes another potential topic. Consider if Achilles fulfills the requirements to be a hero: He turns the tide of the war but also is petulant and selfish. Contrasting the violence and concept of a good leader with that of other works, such as the Bible, would make interesting reading.