The Significance of Arête in Homer's Iliad: A Study of Achilles and Priam

In Homeric society, the concept of arête, translated as 'virtue' or excellence, holds a significant role, particularly evident in the epic tale of the Iliad. Arête, manifested through qualities such as courage, honor, and sacrifice, shapes the actions of heroes on both sides of the Trojan War. This essay delves into the profound importance of arête, focusing on two central characters – Achilles and Priam – who embody this virtue in distinctive ways.

Achilles: The Tragic Hero Driven by Honor and Fate

Born to an immortal goddess with a fate destined for a short yet glorious life, Achilles encapsulates the epitome of arête.

His actions on the battlefield, marked by courage and sacrifice, mirror the values upheld in Homeric society. The narrative unfolds with a clash between Achilles and Agamemnon over the possession of Briseis, a conflict that transcends mere material acquisition.

Agamemnon's appropriation of Briseis is not merely a violation of Achilles' possessions but an affront to his honor.

Get quality help now

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

Proficient in: Virtues

4.7 (235)

“ Amazing writer! I am really satisfied with her work. An excellent price as well. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

In retaliation, Achilles withdraws from the war, illustrating the inseparable connection between arête and personal honor. The depth of Achilles' anger is evident in his plea to his mother, Thetis, urging her to seek Zeus' aid against the Greeks due to Agamemnon's actions (Iliad 1.407-412).

As the Trojans gain momentum, Achilles, recognizing the dire situation, allows his comrade Patroclus to don his armor and rejoin the battle. Tragically, this strategic move results in Patroclus' death at the hands of Hector, further fueling Achilles' rage. His indiscriminate and merciless retaliation, culminating in Hector's death, showcases the complex interplay of honor, grief, and the pursuit of arête.

The importance of proper funeral rites, not merely for religious reasons but as a means of honoring the fallen hero, becomes evident as Achilles ensures that Patroclus receives the respect he deserves. This act highlights Achilles' respect and adherence to the cultural significance of arête even in the face of overwhelming grief and anger.

Despite his god-like abilities and immense strength, Achilles grapples with his mortality and the inevitable fate awaiting him in Troy. The tragic irony of his fate, foretold by his mother, adds a layer of complexity to his character, emphasizing the unavoidable intertwining of destiny and arête.

Furthermore, Achilles' internal conflict is laid bare during his confrontation with Priam, the King of Troy. The exchange between the two leaders unveils the vulnerability beneath Achilles' seemingly invincible exterior. This vulnerability, a humanizing aspect of his character, underscores the universal themes of grief, loss, and the quest for meaning in the face of mortality.

Priam: The Noble King's Pursuit of Honor and Humility

On the opposing side, Priam, the venerable King of Troy, offers a contrasting yet equally compelling representation of arête. Despite his pride as a ruler and the breaker of horses, Priam exhibits humility and courage when he ventures into the enemy camp to bargain for the body of his slain son, Hector.

Priam's journey is guided by a divine messenger, emphasizing his faith in the gods and the belief that arête involves a harmonious relationship with the divine. The act of bargaining for Hector's body with gifts demonstrates Priam's understanding of the importance of proper funeral rites, ensuring that his son receives the honor he deserves even in death.

Arriving at Achilles' tent with gifts of "gold, goblets, and linens," Priam negotiates with dignity and respect. This exchange reveals the complexity of arête, as Priam seeks to honor his son while respecting Achilles' position and honor. Priam's humility and courage shine through as he converses with Achilles not as an enemy but with the dignity befitting fellow humans.

Priam's internal struggle, torn between grief for his son and the responsibility of safeguarding his kingdom's honor, adds depth to his character. The moral and emotional complexities faced by Priam mirror the broader exploration of arête as a multifaceted concept intertwined with the intricacies of human existence.

Moreover, Priam's reliance on divine guidance and belief in the gods' protection during his perilous journey underscore the intersection of arête and religious conviction. His actions exemplify a harmonious balance between mortal virtues and divine favor, offering a nuanced perspective on the cultural and spiritual dimensions of arête.

Achilles and Priam: A Tapestry of Arête in Conflict and Resolution

These two contrasting figures, Achilles and Priam, represent arête in their own spheres, embodying the ideals of a brave warrior and a noble king, respectively. Achilles, despite his anger and inner turmoil, displays greatness through his adherence to honor and the proper treatment of fallen heroes. Priam, on the other hand, showcases the multifaceted nature of arête, combining courage, humility, and a deep religious conviction.

The poignant encounter between Priam and Achilles, where the King appeals to the warrior's humanity, transcends conventional notions of friend and foe. In this moment, arête extends beyond the battlefield, illustrating a shared human experience in a world shaped by the whims of the gods. This interaction encapsulates the essence of arête, emphasizing the importance of virtue, honor, and respect in the face of adversity.

The internal transformations undergone by both Achilles and Priam contribute to the overarching theme of arête as a dynamic and evolving concept. Achilles, initially driven by anger and the pursuit of personal honor, experiences a profound shift as he confronts the humanity in Priam's grief. Priam, in turn, navigates the delicate balance between kingly responsibility and the profound sorrow of a father.

Conclusion: Arête as a Cultural and Religious Imperative

In conclusion, arête emerges as a central and complex theme in Homer's Iliad, intricately woven into the characters of Achilles and Priam. Through their actions and choices, these figures exemplify the diverse facets of arête, ranging from the fierce courage of a warrior to the humble wisdom of a king. The significance of virtue in Homeric society extends beyond the battlefield, permeating every aspect of life and death.

As the epic unfolds, it becomes evident that arête is not merely a personal quality but a cultural and religious imperative, shaping the destinies of heroes and kings alike. The interplay of honor, courage, and humility in the pursuit of arête creates a tapestry of human experience, illustrating the enduring relevance of these ancient ideals in our understanding of virtue and excellence.