Iliad

The Iliad is an ancient Greek epic poem traditionally attributed to Homer. It is composed in dactylic hexameter and is generally dated to the late 8th century BCE, though exact dating remains debated. As one of the oldest surviving works of Western literature, it is a foundational text of the Greek epic tradition. The poem is set during the late stages of the Trojan War, but it covers only a portion of the conflict, focusing on the quarrel between the Greek commander Agamemnon and the Achaean champion Achilles and the consequences for the Greek coalition.

Plot and structure: The narrative centers on Achilles’ wrath after a dispute with Agamemnon, his withdrawal from battle, and the resulting suffering of the Greek forces. The death of Patroclus, slain by Hector, prompts Achilles to return to combat, leading to Hector’s death and significant hardship for Troy. The epic ends before the city falls, with the final books depicting Priam’s plea to Achilles and the burial of Hector, highlighting a moment of shared mourning and temporary reconciliation.

Language and style: The Iliad makes extensive use of formulaic language and recurring epithets characteristic of oral composition. It interweaves extensive epic battles with moments of human dialogue and divine intervention, as gods repeatedly influence mortal affairs and destinies.

Legacy: The Iliad has profoundly influenced Western literature and art, shaping later depictions of heroism, fate, and the human costs of war. It has been widely translated and studied, and its themes continue to resonate in literary, philosophical, and cultural discussions.