Homer/Homeric Heroism (Views)

[MolecularMan14]

Wow, I know this is incredibly off the subject of science, but I really dont know who to ask.

What are several theories as to Homer was (This is the ancient greek Homer, not the drunken cartoon)?

What was his view on heroism (Altruism/Egotism)?

How was Homer interested in human phychology- why?

Thanks for any help possible

[Aardvark]

Here's a link you might find useful.

 

http://www.123helpme.com/assets/16572.html

[Aardvark]

Incidentialy, i think you should note that Homers idea of heroes were not restricted to one side. Even those on the 'wrong' side could be acknowledged as heroes.

 

For instance both Achilles and Agamemnon can be seen as heroes despite being on opposing sides and despite both having some pretty serious character flaws.

 

Homers view on heroism can be seen as ambigous, but he seems to acknowledge the complexities of the human character and motivations much more than later more simplistic contemporary renderings. His notion of heroism is removed from our morality, a man we would consider bad can be a hero in his eyes. Perhaps this has links with the persistent Greek concepts of noble tragedy. Of doomed Kings, warriors, lovers, forced into actions they know are evil or futile. And yet retaining our basic admiration or respect.

 

A love of paradox is evident.

[Deified]

Achilles and Agamemnon were both fighting for the Greeks in the Iliad. Or did you mean metaphorically?

[Aardvark]

I didn't mean that they were on opposing teams.

 

They represented different things and despite sharing the command of the Greek forces were opposed to each other almost right from the start. The story of the Illiad is almost as much their struggle as the struggle for Troy.

 

A physical war for Troy, psychological struggle between the two men. The two men could be seen as contrasting and opposed archetypes.