The Varieties of Imperishable and Imperishability: What are they?
In literature, the concept of imperishability refers to the quality of being eternal and to transcend time, something that endures beyond the physical world. To meet the criteria for imperishability, a piece of literature must fulfill certain universal standards of quality, longevity, and influence. Despite a classic not being a bestseller today, what sets it apart is that any person who has access to it can always learn from it and become inspired by it.
Imperishability in literature often reflects the idea that the things that endure are those that are whole and express the fullness of life, beauty, experiences, lessons, and love. This can be seen in various forms of imperishability
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In Iliad, Achilles was given a choice between living a long but unremarkable life or choosing to fight in the Trojan War, which would lead to either death or eternal glory. He risks his life to gain "kleos aphthiton," which means "imperishable glory" and will secure his position in history. Achilles understood that the "great risk" that he was faced with would not only involve physical danger, but also the possibility of living an ordinary life without any …show more content…
Thetis tells Achilles that he has a choice between two destinies: to stay at home and live a long, comfortable life, or to go to Troy to fight and die gloriously. Thetis believes that he should choose the path of glory, even if it means a short life. She says to him: "My son, your father, if he lives to see you come back, will give you fine gifts, three times over, the best there are, and will happily give still more. And now go to war, if you must go, with all your heart, and win glory for me, for yourself, and for your father. Do not let the fact that you have a short life keep you from glory, my son." Thetis knows that Achilles is a great warrior, and she wants him to fulfill his