Cyclical Nature In The Iliad

The cyclical nature of Homer’s The Iliad not only implies repetition in plot developments, but thematic resonance as well. Throughout the play, it appears as though the various battles are very similar in causation and motivation. Although the Achaeans and the Trojans are rivals in the war, their reasons for fighting are almost identical. Despite the incredible losses on both sides, the armies still stay in battle for the same incentives; it seems they believe that fighting for honour, love, and beauty is worth the lives they have lost and will continue to lose. The war is constantly on the verge of becoming meaningless but they stay for these reasons. The poem establishes meaning through reoccurring scenarios. The Iliad serves to suggest that there are some causes that justify dying, and that we may be

Many battles within the war have been fought over the bodies of dead allies. Perhaps most notably, Achilles is brought back into battle when he hears of Patroclus’ death. For a long time, many of the Greeks’ most powerful fighters battled over protecting and retrieving Patroclus’ body. These actions are paralleled when Hector’s body is being held captive by Achilles, and, out of desperation, Priam travels to the Greek camp and begs for the body of his son. Both Achilles and Priam are willing to do anything to retrieve and honour the bodies of their beloved dead—including risking their lives. Dying for those who are already dead may seem meaningless, but Homer may be suggesting that seeking justice for the those close to us and honouring our dead is superior to standing by. The repetition of these instances solidifying the importance of honouring the dead, and even jeopardizing our lives to do so. In addition to honouring the bodies of fallen allies, we see that the living are equally desperate to ensure honourable treatment of their