One of the features that distinguish this particular tale in the Odyssey from Homer’s narration in the Iliad is that Odysseus tells it himself, in his own voice. How does this first-person narrative technique help us to understand Homer’s hero better than we might if Homer narrated the events himself?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The Greek soldier demonstrates one of the most important values in Greek culture, his areté, often translated as “virtue,” but actually meaning something closer to “being the best you can be” or “reaching your highest human potential.” Homer uses the term to describe both Greek and Trojan heroes, and it refers not only to their bravery but to their effectiveness in battle. In this reading from the Iliad, Homer describes the battle between Sarpedon, Zeus’ son, and Patroklos, the companion of Achilles, and his stand in in battle. Patroklos and Sarpedon exhibit exemplary courage and strength. Sarpedon spurs his companions on to courage and away from the vice of cowardice by urging them to defend his body from the Greeks. Zeus and Hera both exhibit the areté of wisdom. Hera shows it in urging Zeus to overcome his paternal piety because the repercussions would be disastrous. Zeus exhibits wisdom in listening to reason and argument but also in finding a way to intervene through the instrumentality of Apollo to protect Sarpedon’s body.