The Iliad, Book 22
Group 1:
List as many references to fate as you can find in Book 22. (There are many.) In this
section of the epic what do the humans seem to believe about fate? The gods? What does
fate seem to mean? Who controls it? How does the influence of fate characterize the epic
as a genre?
Group 2:
Lines 1, 27, and 151 contain similes
Lines 31-6, 112-16, 167-174, 194-8, 222-229, 235-239, 310-344, 364-369 develop epic
similes
Explain the difference in quality between an epic simile and a simile? How are the
comparisons different in character (ie. The tenor and the vehicle)? How is the language
itself different? What does the spic simile add to the character of the epic?
Group 3:
Two epic similes compare Achilles to a star, those at lines 31-6 and 375-81.
Analyze these comparisons: what exactly does the poet compare? How (specifically)
does the comparison characterize Achilles?
Group 4:
Early in Book 22 the poet uses irony twice in dealing with Priam, at lines 48-51 and 7884.
Discuss how each is ironic. How does the presence of irony at this point in the epic
underscore both the development of the plot and a theme?
Group 5:
Athena plays a major role in Book 22, from lines 211-364. Explain her part in detail.
Why does she intervene as she does? How does she act treacherously? Is it necessary for
her to intervene?
Group 6:
We know of Hector’s internal struggle in lines 112-156. We also know that he turns tail
and runs when Achilles finally confronts him. Explain the entire section. Is Hector a
coward? How does he attempt to regain his honor? Why does Achilles dishonor him so
thoroughly?