The Power of Pride

Through the first five books of The Iliad, there appears to be one major theme. One theme that is, up to this point in the epic, the driving force behind the majority of the action. Just about every character thus far, both minor and major, has an incredible ego that dominates their personality and their judgment. From the very inception of the story the egos of the prominent characters are already at the forefront of the action. Though not for certain, the Achaeans’ presence in Troy can be attributed to Menelaus’ desire to restore his pride after having his wife taken from him. Nine years into the war, the egos of Menelaus’ brother, Agamemnon, and Achilles, are the cause for conflict amongst the Achaean army. Upon having to forfeit Chryseis, his captured prize, Agamemnon demands that Achilles relinquish his own prize, Briseis, to the Achaean commander. This request, in Achilles’ mind, undermines him and as a result, he refuses to continue to partake in the war. Achilles’ immense pride and massive ego is the sole force behind his decision. Agamemnon’s decisions are also ruled by his pride as he commands the Achaean army no only to recover his brother’s wife, but for his own material gain. Mortals are not the only ones subject to their own pride, as the gods too, have trouble setting aside their egos. The gods are split over whom to support in the dispute and for that reason, they become intricate parts of the war. Whether it is Athena and Hera defending the Achaeans or Apollo and Ares fighting on behalf of the Trojans, the egos of the gods further escalate the already epic conflict. Their pride and desire to outdo one another forces them to physically take part in the mortals’ war. Everyone in this epic tale, both mortal and immortal, is controlled by his or her own ego.