Books with Bella: Review of Homer’s “Iliad”
This edition of “Books with Bella” offers a review of Homer’s Iliad from a Christian student’s perspective within the context of Ancient Literature. So grab your Corinthian helmet and hoplon shield, and let’s dive in!
We’ve all heard of the Trojan War, which was an ancient battle between the Achaeans (Greeks) and the Trojans. But in Homer’s Iliad, readers are given a unique perspective. In part, this is because some of the most memorable tidbits of the war, like the Trojan horse, do not happen here. Plus, we glimpse into the minds of the people and the gods as they battle one another. Such details make The Iliad, an epic written by the famous poet Homer, a gripping read. This particular epic, like most stories in this genre, was initially passed down orally. Thankfully, around the 8th century B.C., someone, possibly Homer, wrote it down. Which is the only reason we are able to enjoy it today. As discussed in my review of The Epic of Gilgamesh, though this tale is a few thousand years old, there are universal truths still applicable to modern readers.
Gods, Goddesses, & Gore – Oh My!
Before reading this book, there are some important notes to keep in mind. To start, this story is not historically accurate, though some elements may be true. Whereas it may shed some light on what we now call “the Greek Dark Ages,” the gods and goddesses mentioned do not exist. Obviously. Secondly, the majority of this wonderful tale is about war. So expect there to be some gore. With those aside, let’s jump into The Iliad, a timeless epic about war, humanity, and the struggle for honor and recognition.
Setting the Stage for Homer’s Iliad
After Helen was abducted, the Trojans and Greeks were locked in brutal war. Surprisingly, it started ten years before The Iliad begins and extends even after The Iliad ends. Homer’s story opens with Achilles, the greatest warrior for Greece, and Agamemnon, the king of Mycenae, fighting over a girl. You see, Agamemnon took the daughter of a priest, which was frowned upon, and was forced to give her back. In return, however, he demanded that Achilles give him his girl, Briseis. Understandably, Achilles was angered by this unjust demand. As a means of retribution, he declared that he would no longer fight in the War. Instead, he and his army would sit out until the Greeks realized how much they needed him. I know what you’re thinking. Yes, he is an overgrown toddler with pride issues.
The Rage of Achilles
Throughout the majority of the war, the gods mostly stayed out of it, per Zeus’ command, with the exception of a few rescues. But after Zeus decreed that each god may fight for their favorite side, they go all in. This is where the battle most resembles any sibling rivalry or bitter family reunion. Understandably, the gods fought each other trying to make sure that their preferred side won. Unfortunately, this led to a terrible human death on the Greek side, which, in turn, forced Achilles to join the war. However, he no longer cared about the loss of his “prize” or the need to make others see how important he was. His best friend was now dead, and his desire for vengeance took over. Now, he wanted to disgrace the Trojans and bring honor to his own country.
Obsessed with Honor
Honor plays a huge role both in the lives of the warriors of old and in the modern world today. For the ancient Greeks, honor was the only way of living beyond the grave. They believed there was nothing after death and that no one could live forever. Even honor, they knew, would eventually fade away. In today’s world, honor often takes another form: popularity. If someone is popular, they are respected, looked up to, valued, and honored. Sometimes, humans become so blinded by the need to make themselves known and valued that they become arrogant and foolish. Although it is not a terrible thing to desire honor and fame, it is not healthy to make such things an obsession. Honor, both then and now, has been a valued aspect of society but has led to many a downfall.
Christian Book Review
Christians should read The Iliad because it provides them with a way to see other worldviews. In this case, Christians are able to peek into the ancient world from the Greek’s perspective. They can see how ancient civilizations believed the gods and goddesses interacted and impacted their daily lives. They can also see all the ways in which the mythological gods fall short. And how Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of humanity’s timeless longings.
In contrast to the gods and goddesses of Olympus, the true God is real and cares about His people. The Greek gods saw the mortals as pawns in their games, providing entertainment. They could have cared less about frail human lives. However, the true God takes care of humans. Instead of looking at them as toys, He sees them as His children and will do anything for them. As the Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life” (ESV, John 3.16). For Christians, The Iliad shines a light into the mind of the ancient Greeks and Trojans. It can also aid us in understanding our omnipotent yet benevolent God better.
Books with Bella: Review of Homer’s Iliad
All in all, The Iliad provides wonderful insight into the Trojan War. However, do not read it if you are uncomfortable with gore. Contrary to most, I enjoyed reading The Iliad. Aside from all the bloodshed, it was entertaining and interesting to see into the minds of the great Achilles and the gods of Olympus. Even though this epic tale is a fantastic read, especially if you are into mythology, I would not recommend it to younger readers due to some dark themes, such as the gruesome nature of war and its aftermath. For some, The Iliad may also be confusing since the language is more poetic. I recommend the Robert Fagles’ translation of The Iliad, which is readable but still true to the original.
Homer’s Iliad is an exciting story consisting of universal themes such as war and the struggle for honor, making it applicable to modern audiences around the world today. To summarize this Books with Bella review of Homer’s Iliad, I highly recommend it and think everyone should read it at least once in their life.
Books with Bella (author bio): Isabella is a high school student reading her way through selections of Ancient & Medieval Literature. As part of her homeschool curriculum, she has endeavored to review some of her readings, especially for students her own age. Although excited to share her essays with a wider audience, Isabella really enjoys spending her free time writing fiction and drawing. Maybe someday she’ll share some of those projects. For now, stay tuned for more book reviews with Bella!