unit 1: homer’s iliad

MEETING 1: the trojan legend and book 1

The events of Homer’s Iliad occur in a span that is less than a month in the 10th year in the Trojan War. So what was the Trojan War, and how did it start? In today’s Homeric mini-lecture, I’ll give you my best attempt at a retelling of the so-called Trojan Legend.

During most of today’s class, we’ll move through Book 1: According to the first 8 lines, what will this poem be about? What accusations do Achilles and Agamemnon level at each other? Do you think these charges are just? Who do you think is in the right in this quarrel? Who do the Achaeans think is in the right? Why? Why do you think Achilles and Agamemnon fail to take Nestor’s advice? What kind of people do you think Agamemnon and Achilles are?

Which passages stand out? Whose speeches are most memorable? Why?

Homework: Please read the following before our next class:

(1) These selections from Seneca's "On Anger". As you read Seneca, think about what makes you angry. How do you deal with it? Why, according to Seneca, should we avoid it?

(2) Books 2 and 3 of the Iliad. Reserve enough time. This is a long selection of the poem. Skip Book 2, lines 522-872: In a passage known as the Catalogue of the Ships, the poet lists—yes, lists—the contingents of the Greek army and their leaders.