The Iliad of Homer by Samuel Butler

A series of vocabulary flashcards based on key terms and characters from 'The Iliad'.

Achilles

A Greek hero of the Trojan War, central figure in the Iliad, known for his strength and for the anger that causes him to withdraw from battle.

Agamemnon

The king of Mycenae and leader of the Achaeans in the Trojan War, whose quarrel with Achilles is a key plot of the Iliad.

Hector

Prince of Troy and the greatest warrior for the Trojans in the Trojan War, known for his noble character and tragic fate.

Briseis

A woman captured by Achilles and awarded to him as a prize of honor; her removal by Agamemnon incites Achilles’ wrath.

Patroclus

Achilles' close companion and friend, whose death at Hector's hands prompts Achilles to rejoin the battle.

Thetis

The sea goddess and mother of Achilles, notable for her attempts to protect her son from his tragic fate.

Jove (Jupiter)

The king of the gods in Roman mythology, equivalent to Zeus in Greek mythology; he plays a significant role in the moral and divine order throughout the Iliad.

Hecuba

The queen of Troy and wife of Priam, mother of Hector and many other Trojan princes.

Patroclus’ Armor

The glorious armor made by Hephaestus for Achilles, which is later worn by Patroclus in battle.

Troy (Ilium)

The city besieged by the Achaeans in the Trojan War, famous for its legendary walls and the events of the Iliad.