Homer's Iliad as a Critique of War

Subject  > Literature Research Papers  > European Literature

Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad, relays the story of the Trojan War, fought before the fabled city of Ilion. Overall, Homer depicts war in an unenthusiastic light rather than glorifying it, showing the widespread adverse effects that the Trojan War brings upon the members of the nations of Troy and Greece. He uses the story of The Iliad to portray his negative view of war by analyzing in detail the physical slaughter and the emotional pain that war involves. Not only does the battle influence individual soldiers, but it also affects the lives of countless other characters who do not take part in the actual fighting. This bleak outlook on war is portrayed in various ways ...

... remain home to live a long, peaceful life. To engage in battle is to demonstrate honor, while to shun combat is to reveal indolence and fear. This view, however, does not address the nature of warfare. Clearly, there is an emphasis on detailed accounts of the fighting, but these are a glorification of the characteristics of bravery and skill in battle rather than a glorification of war itself. Homer respects men with these values, but he denounces the brutal destruction that can accompany them in times of war. The cost of human life is by no means the correct method for obtaining glory and honor. In conclusion, Homer uses the story

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