Magnanimity in the Iliad
Strength, honor, and unconditional bravery are held dear to the Achaians and Trojans alike. Among those people, qualities that reveal leadership and might are highly regarded as indicative of a magnanimous human being. Yet, Agamemnon, Achilleus, and Hektor all perceive magnanimity in different ways, and each attempts to exude it as he understands it. Public recognition is a key element for one to be honored in Greek and Trojan societies, however, the three men differ in how dependent they are upon that recognition for complete satisfaction or happiness. Agamemnon is the definitive king who all too readily reminds his subalterns of their status. For Agamemnon, to be great-souled is to have utter control and command. His need for recognition from, and the fear of, other men is blatantly evident when he attempts to humble Achilleus, saying, 'I shall take the fair-cheeked Briseis,your prize, I myself going to your shelter, that you may learn well how much greater I am than you, and another man may shrink back from likening himself to me and contending against me.' (64) For him nobility and worthiness can be measured materially. To be a prodigious leader in the eyes of his people, the Achaians, Agam
Human will must be tested and given the opportunity to try an individual's virtues. It is in human nature to want to succeed or to feel accomplished. However, for Agamemnon that wish is granted only when he is publicly recognized and rewarded. Achilleus strives for honor based on personal satisfaction as the dominant factor in the degree of recognition or respect he is given. Hektor is most probably the most selfless character of the trio. Self-respect permits one to be content on a deeper level than does the lack of self-respect allow for contentment on the part of those men who are merely adulated by others. Agamemnon simply desires more so that he may be seen as more powerful. No, for insuch things you see death. In that sense, Agamemnon's perception of magnanimity is distinctive because he feels he is owed respect simply by his being in the position of power. All exude power, respect, and honor. The greatness of his soul is in no way tertiary to that of Agamemnon and Achilleus. Selfishness or greed never play a part in Hektor's character. However, the degree of their honor measured either by public recognition, or by love of self, of by love of family differentiates each of the men from one another. Then on the Trojan side, Hektor, scolding Paris for his cowardice in refusing to fight Menelaos, Hektor gives insight into his own idea of magnanimity.
Common topics in this essay:
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Achaians Agamemnon,
Greek Trojan,
Trojans Trojan,
Achilleus Hektor,
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love family,
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