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Hubris In The Odyssey

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Our initial introduction to Agamemnon was his not-so-political demonstration of hubris as he disregarded the honor of his men and fulfilled his own selfish desires. Agamemnon's actions led to the retaliation of Apollo and the loss of loyalty of the great warrior Achilleus. It seems like hubris is used by Homer to express power and confidence in a warrior. Interestingly, as the war continues it is Achilleus who demonstrates the most hubris.

Achilleus' displeasure of the actions of his commanding officer, Agamemnon, were clearlye expressed in book eleven. “All the other prizes of honor he gave the great men and the princes are held fast by them, but from me alone of all the Achaians he has taken and keeps the bride of my heart. (page 255, line 335)” He was so butthurt …show more content…

“Son of Peleus, far greatest of the Achaians, Achilleus, do not be angry; such grief has fallen upon th Achaians. For all those who were before the bravest in battle are lying up among the ships with arrow or spear wounds. (page 351, line 22)” The honorable thing for Achilleus to do in this situation would be to rejoin the Achaian forces and defend his brothers. But Achilleus continues to wine about how Agamemnon treated him like a “...dishonored vagabond. (page 352, line 59)” Infact he repeats this statement multiple times whenever discussing this matter. He was so affected by being treated like a lower class, he literally abandoned his duty as a soldier. Patroklos then proposed that he dresses up as Achilleus to inspire the troops and insight fear into the Trojans. Once again, Achilleus demonstrates hubris by rebutting, “So you will diminish my honor. (page 353, line 90)” This interaction between Achillius and Patroklos clearly demonstrates the self-interest of Achillius. He ultimately allows Patroklos to take his armor, knowing that Patroklos will probably

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