Reading Notes: Homer's Illiad, Part A

Of How the War with Troy Began 

I decided to write my reading notes on this part of Homer's Illiad because I think the way this introduces the story in its entirety is important. What I really enjoy about the way its told is the slight descriptions of the characters. There are slight descriptions about who they are but not too in depth which keeps it short and sweet. For example the story makes sure you know the connections between people like Menelaus and Agamemnon being brothers. 

Another aspect I enjoyed about this first part is that it makes very important details like the oath through speech. When Menelaus and Agamemnon challenge the people to come and support their promise I find it important that it is in their voice. I think as a writer this makes the reader able to realize what exactly is going on better. I almost felt like one of the soldiers myself reading it and thats obviously what was trying to be done. 

There was a lot of information to be given here so the fact that it was kept concise is inspiring as a writer. I'm not sure if I will need an introduction for any of my stories but if so this is how it should be done. If anything I can take away the impact of dictation for emphasis of things that will come to 

life later on.

A statue of Achilles found on Wikimedia Commons. 

The Deeds and Death of Patroclus

One thing I truly admire about this part of the Illiad is Patroclus. I think this is such an emotional conversation between him and Achilles because you can fully feel his passion in his words. I like the idea of a character who despite his differences in opinion with another still feels the need to fight. I think it is a great aspect in showing the importance of the fight going on that he is willing to risk his life. In my stories I would like to have a character who can express so much emotion in speech and also his actions. However as much as I love how strong a fighter Achilles is, this section is frustrating because he won't fight. That just shows how emotional this is because as a reader you're getting upset due to actions and words. I think in some of my stories where I want to add a hero I also need to add something so descriptive as to why there needs to be a hero in the first place. I might not be covering this perfectly in my notes but I think by the briefness of Achilles, it makes Patroclus even better. In my writing I should keep this in mind of having counter parts. 

Bibliography: 

Homer's Iliad (retold by A. J. Church)