Book 24
How do the gods react to Achilles’ treatment of Hector’s body, and what do they do about it?
The gods are displeased by Achilles’ desecration of Hector’s body. Zeus sends Thetis to persuade Achilles to return the body, and Hermes guides Priam safely to Achilles’ camp.
How does Patroclus appear to Achilles, and what does he request?
Patroclus appears in a dream, urging Achilles to bury him so his soul can find peace in the underworld.
Why does Hector initially run from Achilles, and how is he eventually tricked into facing him?
Hector runs because he is overwhelmed by fear, knowing Achilles is a superior warrior. Athena, disguised as Hector’s brother Deiphobus, tricks him into believing he has support in the duel.
How do Books 22–24 explore the themes of revenge, grief, and reconciliation?
Achilles’ rage drives him to seek revenge on Hector. Grief is depicted through Achilles’ mourning for Patroclus and Priam’s mourning for Hector. Reconciliation comes when Achilles and Priam share their pain, leading to the return of Hector’s body.
What does Priam say to persuade Achilles to return Hector’s body? How does this affect Achilles?
Priam appeals to Achilles’ sense of compassion, comparing himself to Achilles’ own father, Peleus. This reminds Achilles of his own mortality and softens his anger, leading him to return Hector’s body.
What rituals and sacrifices does Achilles perform for Patroclus’ funeral?
Achilles sacrifices animals, including Patroclus’ horses, and twelve Trojan captives. He builds a grand pyre for Patroclus’ body and lights it with offerings of wine and oil.
What role does Athena play in Hector’s final battle with Achilles?
Athena deceives Hector by appearing as Deiphobus, encouraging him to stand and fight. She also aids Achilles by returning his spear during the fight.
What contrasts can you identify between Achilles’ grief for Patroclus and Priam’s grief for Hector?
Achilles’ grief is expressed through uncontrollable rage and violence, while Priam’s grief is more dignified and measured. Priam channels his sorrow into a plea for his son’s body, showing restraint and wisdom.
How is the theme of shared humanity depicted in the meeting between Priam and Achilles?
Priam and Achilles connect through their mutual grief—Priam for Hector and Achilles for Patroclus. This moment highlights the shared pain and vulnerability of human existence, even in the midst of war.
Why does Achilles organize the funeral games, and what events are included?
Achilles organizes the games to honor Patroclus’ memory and give the Greek warriors a way to pay their respects. Events include chariot racing, boxing, wrestling, archery, and spear throwing.
How does Achilles kill Hector, and what does Hector predict before his death?
Achilles kills Hector by driving his spear through Hector’s neck, avoiding his armor. Before dying, Hector predicts that Achilles will die soon at the hands of Paris and Apollo.
How do the funeral rites for Patroclus and Hector highlight the importance of honoring the dead in ancient Greek culture?
Both funerals involve elaborate rituals to ensure the souls of the deceased find peace. They show the cultural emphasis on proper burial as a way to honor the dead and maintain their legacy.
What rituals do the Trojans perform for Hector’s funeral, and why is his burial significant for the story’s conclusion?
The Trojans mourn Hector deeply, perform funeral rites, and burn his body on a pyre. His burial signifies the temporary suspension of the war and brings emotional closure to the epic.
How do the games reflect the values and culture of the Greek warriors?
The games emphasize honor, competition, and camaraderie. They show the importance of physical prowess and the social standing gained through athletic excellence.
How does Achilles treat Hector’s body after the duel, and what does this reveal about his character?
Achilles desecrates Hector’s body by tying it to his chariot and dragging it around Troy. This reveals Achilles’ deep rage and inability to show respect or mercy, consumed by vengeance.
In what ways does the ending of The Iliad bring closure, and what remains unresolved?
Hector’s funeral brings emotional closure, symbolizing a pause in the conflict and humanizing both sides. However, the ultimate fate of Troy and Achilles’ death remain unresolved, leaving room for the continuation of the story in later epics.