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What are some of the apparent values in the Iliad and the Odyssey?

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The Odyssey and the Iliad are known for the courage and intelligence proclamation in a warrior. These are the best qualities that shape him as a man. It glorifies honor as the most significant asset a person can ever have.

Detailed answer:

The Iliad and the Odyssey are monumental literary pieces. At the time, they influenced the values of Greek culture and life. Homer’s books form a central part of the morality and ethics of the civilized society. Homer’s masterpieces are the best portrayal of the Greek community, with its views and morals. The central elements of his works are moral and political issues. From the Odyssey and the Iliad, it is evident that the Greeks highly valued themselves. They loved their intellectual and military achievements.

These poems became an actual representation of unspoken Homeric values in society. The values gave people more guidance. In the Iliad and the Odyssey, the readers learn about courage and honor. These are presented as the best warrior’s assets. Because of the honor, Hector decided to fight for Troy and eject the invaders from the territory. Similarly, Achilles was driven by the honor to step into the army in the Odyssey.

Both books’ military theme shows the qualities of a great warrior. They set high standards and values for Greeks of the time. The pieces praise heroism, denounce cowards, and represent pride as one of the worst qualities. In the Iliad, many courageous warriors are not afraid to die for their country in numerous battles. Whereas in the Odyssey, characters bravely overcome dangerous adventures on their way home.

The promotion of leadership skills is translated into Homer’s poems of the Iliad and Odyssey. The books are filled with characters who possess the best authorial qualities. They are ready to become the country’s rulers or leaders of the army. Such values were highly praised in ancient Greece. They demonstrated excellent oratory skills, managed society, and eagerness to change it for the better.

The Greeks are well-known for their value of intelligence and eagerness to learn. They are still considered to be the smartest race of the ancient period. The Odyssey has a great example of wittiness and intelligence – Odysseus’ wife. She claims that she must finish weaving a shroud before marriage. She postpones the marriage to an older man every day. Penelope weaves until the day a man dies, so she does not have to become his wife. In the Iliad, numerous episodes represent military intelligence. Calchus, an excellent strategist who developed a perfect plan for attacking Troy, is a great example.

Therefore, Homer’s pieces serve as guides for the Greeks about society’s morals and values. The books became a portrayal of ancient society. The poems presented how society works and how it is managed. Readers can distinguish three main moralities, which are honor, courage, and intelligence. Such values were the driven mechanism in society. They shaped the behavioral models appropriate for the era.

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IvyPanda. (2024) 'What are some of the apparent values in the Iliad and the Odyssey'. 21 August.

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IvyPanda. 2024. "What are some of the apparent values in the Iliad and the Odyssey?" August 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/q/what-are-some-of-the-apparent-values-in-the-iliad-and-the-odyssey/.

1. IvyPanda. "What are some of the apparent values in the Iliad and the Odyssey?" August 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/q/what-are-some-of-the-apparent-values-in-the-iliad-and-the-odyssey/.


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IvyPanda. "What are some of the apparent values in the Iliad and the Odyssey?" August 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/q/what-are-some-of-the-apparent-values-in-the-iliad-and-the-odyssey/.