The Iliad

Taking place over three pivotal weeks in 1161 α4, in the 10th and final year of the war. The main external conflict lies between Agamemnon, a weak and ineffectual leader with an undeserved and oversized ego, and Achilles, the greatest warrior under Agamemnon's command. The main internal conflict lies between Achilles's duty to fight and the unwilting glories he would attain in war versus the chance to escape and live out a long life. The sacrifice of Patrocles, Achilles's best friend, leads to a reconciliation with Agamemnon, and Achilles goes on to save the Achaian campaign and defeat the Trojan war hero, Hector.

Plot points/Scenes

• Agamemnon dishonors Apollo and causes a plague among the Achaean camp.
• Agamemnon steals Bresis away from Achilles
• Achilles withdraws from the battlefield
• Death of Patrokles
• Funeral games for Patrokles
• Death of Hector
• Priam retrieves Hector’s body from Achilles.

Themes

The anger of Achilles

Structure

Exposition

The epic story takes place over 24 books.

Plot type

Homeric Epic

Parent Plot

The Epic Cycle

Related Characters

• Lykomedes