Importance of Iliad as Modern Teaching Tool

Importance of Iliad as a Modern Teaching Tool

The passing of works from generation to generation is not an uncommon thing,

nor is it a new practice. For centuries, even since the beginning of time, scholars have

recorded and passed on historical accounts, works of art, poetry, and great literary works

as a means of transcending the culture from one generation to the next. In doing so, these

works were not merely used for leisurely purposes, rather as a way to teach and educate

different lessons, morals, and values. Many notable works have come and gone

throughout the ages, each with their own set of teachings or lessons to be gained.

I believe it to be true that Homer's Iliad is a wonderful work of literature, as well as a

container of many valuable teachings. These teaching, however, are not limited to the

culture and time of Homer's days. When applied to our modern world, The Iliad runs the

gamete of varitable lessons from which we can draw from it. In fact, the lessons in The

Iliad even mirror situations we might find typical in today's world.

Although it may take many forms, or different meanings, honor is a trait most

decent people still consider an admirable, and often even necessary quality. The Iliad

definitely does not lack scenes which make a good case for honor as a worthy attribute to

hold. One such scene which comes to mind is the conflict between Diomedes and

Glaucus. These two warriors meet on the battle field, ready to battle. While talking in a

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negative manner about each other's lineage. While engrossed their discourse, they

discover that their respective ancestors were allies. Rather than continue their hatef...

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...iad many years ago he had such dreams of inspiring others to their greatest potential

with his work. However, it is interesting to ponder the thought of how, or even if, Homer

would have envisioned his work being able to stand the test of time and remain a resource

and guideline for honorable living even in the 21st century. That is not to say that copies

of The Iliad are used as such, but the potential is definitely there, if it were to be conveyed

to our present generation of people still trying to seek out what is not only decent and

right, but what truly makes a person whole. It is with that in mind that it would be truly

worthy of all people to hear the cry of the ancients and not let their lives fall into

obscurity, or be tarnished by wasteful living. With The Iliad comes much learning,

even at the dawn of a new millennium.