2. Importance of distinction in life and in battle
             3. Greek reliance on gods to explain real situations
             Throughout Homer's Iliad exist instances of the ephemeral nature of life. One of these cases consists of the decisions and motivations for the character Achilles. He knows that the brevity or longevity of his life relies on the decisions he makes concerning his involvement in the war; either he can accept Agamemnon's claim to Briseis and once again fight in the war (which he knows will claim his life), or he can return to his home and lead a long life without glory. He reconciles with Agamemnon, and chooses to battle though it will lead to his doom. This decision is of course influenced by the realization of and mourning for the death of his friend Patroclus. Another example of the inevitability of death is the reiteration of the impending fall of Troy as prophesized by Calchas and emphasized by Hector. While glorious and worthy of remembrance, the grandeur of Troy will come to an end. In addition, the death of the mighty Hector is (essentially) foretold by his wife Andromache, who is not surprised at but grieves his death.
             It is highlighted throughout Iliad (and Greek history in general) that above all, virtue and glory are (or should be) the most important goals in life. Hector's situation is evidence of such a goal – instead of choosing to live a longer life with his family, he wants to at least die honorably for his father Priam. He charges at Achilles, after saying: "I will not perish without some great deed That future generations will remember" (332-33). His thought does not even stray to memories or hopes for his family and son, revealing his true purpose in death – glory and remembrance. The result of Hector's death is glory for Achilles, as now his friend Patroclus' death is avenged. This battle is one of many for Achilles, who kno
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