Character Comparison Of Sacrifice In Achilles And Iliad

While both works follow a similar pattern in their respective contrasts, a difference comes in the reactions and actions of the character’s possessing a tragic flaw. The degree to which the sacrifice affects Agamemnon and Achilles differs greatly. The death of Patroclus highlights the shortcomings of Achilles, a point that the hero is very much aware of. He tells Thetis “Then let me die at once, since it was not my fate to save my dearest comrade from his death!” (Iliad 18.114-116). His mourning and guilt overcomes him, as he takes the blame for sending Patroclus out alone, when he believes he should’ve been there at his side to protect him. His extreme guilt is thus translated into admitting his faults and accepting his shortcomings. He goes

This contrast became fairly obvious in both works, giving both Agamemnon and Achilles an opportunity to witness respective characteristics they both deeply needed. All people, in a sense, have some aspect of their character that could stand some improvement. In viewing admirable qualities or virtues in others via their actions, one may often notice such attributes are lacking in his or her own character. Open-mindedness is key in recognizing inner flaws and potential solutions to them. Achilles chose to admit his faults and take responsibility for his actions (unlike King Agamemnon) upon the death of his cousin, which aided in the cause that Patroclus readily gave his life for. His flaw didn’t simply vanish, and can still be seen as present, however, Achilles did learn the perils of his flaw, and the potential consequences of it, which brought about a sense of awareness. By taking notice of one’s own shortcomings, whether through viewing the consequences of them or just witnessing someone with opposingly positive traits, an opportunity presents itself to allow reform and