Illiad

What does 'mēnis' mean in the context of The Iliad?

Wrath or rage, particularly the destructive anger of Achilles.

What is a central theme of The Iliad as introduced in Book 1?

The destructive nature of anger and its consequences.

Who is the leader of the Greeks in The Iliad?

Agamemnon.

What is Achilles' war prize taken by Agamemnon?

Briseis.

In Book 2, what does Agamemnon dream about?

That the Greeks are on the brink of victory.

What role does Odysseus play in Book 2 of The Iliad?

He restores order when the army nearly decides to retreat.

What famous list does the poet provide in Book 2?

The Catalogue of Ships.

What do Paris and Menelaus agree to do in Book 3?

Duel over Helen.

Who rescues Paris during his duel with Menelaus?

Aphrodite.

What theme is explored through Helen's beauty in Book 3?

Love and its devastating consequences.

Who breaks the truce in Book 4, reigniting the conflict?

A Trojan archer, provoked by Athena.

What is the concept of 'moira' in The Iliad?

Fate or destiny.

In Book 5, who grants Diomedes superhuman strength?

Athena.

What does Achilles’ withdrawal from battle symbolize?

The tension between individual pride and communal duty.

What does Hector represent in Book 6?

The greatest Trojan warrior and the human cost of conflict.

How does Hector’s duty conflict in Book 6?

His duty to Troy versus his love for his family.

What is the outcome of the duel between Hector and Ajax in Book 7?

A stalemate, leading to a temporary truce.

What did Zeus declare regarding the battle in Book 8?

That the Trojans will have the upper hand until Achilles returns.

What does the Embassy to Achilles in Book 9 signify?

The Greek leaders' realization that they cannot win without Achilles.

What critical moment occurs when Achilles refuses the gifts offered by the embassy in Book 9?

His obsession with personal timē and kleos over duty.

What dark aspect of warfare is highlighted in Book 10?

Espionage and nighttime raids.

In Book 11, what does Agamemnon’s initial success lead to?

He is eventually wounded while Achilles still refuses to engage.

What foreshadows greater disasters in Book 12?

Hector’s successful assault on Greek fortifications.

Who secretly aids the Greeks in Book 13?

Poseidon.

How does Hera manipulate the situation in Book 14?

By seducing Zeus to distract him.

What does Achilles allow Patroclus to do in Book 16?

Wear his armor and lead the Myrmidons into battle.

What is a primary theme highlighted in Book 17 regarding Patroclus?

The warrior code of respect for the dead.

What does the Shield of Achilles represent in Book 18?

The duality of human existence and the cycles of conflict.

What is significant about Achilles' reconciliation with Agamemnon in Book 19?

It shifts Achilles’ wrath from Agamemnon to Hector.

What does Achilles' return to battle symbolize in Book 20?

The destructive power of unchecked mēnis.

What does Achilles face in his battle with Scamander in Book 21?

The river god who attempts to drown him.

What is the dramatic climax of The Iliad in Book 22?

Achilles kills Hector.

What themes are central during the Funeral Games for Patroclus in Book 23?

Mourning and commemoration.

In Book 24, what does Achilles’ moment with Priam signify?

Mutual suffering and a moment of grace after rage.

How does The Iliad conclude thematically?

With a reflection on human suffering and the cycle of life and death.

What does the term 'timē' refer to in Greek culture?

Honor or value associated with a warrior's status.

What is 'kleos' and why is it important in The Iliad?

Glory or renown earned through heroic deeds; it is a primary motivation for warriors.

What does 'arete' mean in the context of warfare?

Excellence or virtue in the context of a warrior’s prowess.

Define 'hiketeia' in Greek literature.

A formal plea for mercy or assistance.

What does 'philia' refer to among soldiers in The Iliad?

Friendship or brotherly love.

What does 'atē' signify in terms of human behavior?

Blind folly or delusion instigated by the gods.

What is 'nostos' and how does it relate to The Iliad?

The theme of homecoming; more implicit as the war is ongoing.

What does 'nemesis' represent in The Iliad?

Righteous indignation or divine retribution.