How Is Language Used In The Iliad

Although Homer wrote The Iliad to begin with, what his real text says is unknown to those untrained in classical Greek. Any english-speaking reader can, however, examine the language used by the translator Robert Fagles and explore how it impacts the reader’s perception of the story. The first distinct type of language used is imagery. In Book 18, Achilles is compared to a tree. “and he shot up like a young branch, like a fine tree I reared him-the orchard’s crowning glory-” (469). This simile sticks out from all previous comparisons, all the other soldiers are compared to animals or shepherds but never plants. A tree often stands for strength which seems to suit Achilles and the idea that he is “the orchard’s crowning glory” reveals he’s useful and has beneficial qualities which can also be seen with his power in battle. Trees are also often seen as wise and nurturing however, which contradicts Achilles personality as it is impulsive, prideful, and stubborn.

When Hector refuses to leave Patroclus’ corpse, the Greeks cannot scare him off anymore than “shepherds out in the field can scare a tawny lion off his kill when the hunger drives the beast claw-mad” (472). Lions are often seen as “kings of the jungle” and strong, fearsome predators. Hector is perceived as the leader to the Trojan side as well as one of their strongest fighters. Lions are social creatures and have families of their own to protect, which we get to see a glimpse of Hector’s wife and child and him as a father, instead of just a