How Long Did The Iliad War Last According To Homer?

2025-08-01 02:28:58 312

4 Answers

Liam
Liam
2025-08-03 23:52:55
Homer's 'Iliad' has always fascinated me with its blend of myth and history. The Trojan War, as described by Homer, lasted for a staggering ten years. This prolonged conflict between the Greeks and Trojans wasn't just about Helen's abduction—it was a complex web of divine intervention, heroic pride, and political intrigue.

What's particularly interesting is how Homer compresses most of the action into a few crucial weeks during the final year, focusing on Achilles' wrath. The decade-long siege showcases the brutality of ancient warfare while allowing for deep character development. The length also serves a narrative purpose, emphasizing the futility and exhaustion of war, making the eventual fall of Troy all the more impactful.
Ursula
Ursula
2025-08-04 22:56:38
I remember first reading 'The Iliad' in high school and being shocked that the Trojan War lasted a full ten years according to Homer. That's an entire decade of battles, strategies, and personal dramas unfolding outside Troy's walls. The epic focuses mainly on the quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon during the war's final year, but Homer makes it clear this was just the climax of a much longer conflict. The duration adds weight to the story—imagine the fatigue of soldiers who'd been fighting that long, or the desperation of Trojans trapped in their city.
Isaac
Isaac
2025-08-05 19:30:39
In Homer's 'Iliad', the Trojan War dragged on for ten grueling years. The poet doesn't detail every year but uses this timespan to heighten the drama—Achilles' nine-year sulk makes his return to battle in the tenth year more impactful. This duration also lets Homer explore different aspects of war, from the glory of combat to its psychological toll on warriors and civilians alike.
Yvette
Yvette
2025-08-06 05:43:15
From my perspective as a mythology enthusiast, Homer's account of the Iliad war lasting ten years feels symbolic as much as historical. The number ten appears significant in many ancient traditions, representing completion or testing. The prolonged siege mirrors the heroes' endurance and the gods' patience running thin. While modern scholars debate the historical accuracy, Homer's narrative power lies in how he uses this extended timeframe to explore human nature under extreme duress.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

One Long Last
One Long Last
Katie Megan Romero, a talented young theatre actress who fell in love with a talent producer. But what are they going to do if their relationship is being messed up with the bashers? Will they still fight or just leave each other behind?
Not enough ratings
33 Chapters
Three Months Long
Three Months Long
Three months long is a book centred on love, romance and betrayal. It talks about what some people consider important in a relationship, and how certain decisions affect people. Olivia, the main character is at the center of a love triangle but still convinced herself to push forward against all odds.
Not enough ratings
7 Chapters
Mighty Long Fall
Mighty Long Fall
A boy who falls hard, and a girl afraid of falling. Cassiopeia Walton has always been running away. Falling in love isn't an option, she learned that lesson the hard way. The only way to protect herself is by closing off her heart and not letting anyone in. Matthew Rayner refuses to allow anything to stand between him and his dreams. He already failed once and once was enough. He won't fail his band mates again. Now that they have finally achieved their hard earned success, he vows to put the band before everything else. When Cassie began to work with Matt's band, neither can resist the magnetic force between them. Matt and Cassie falls helplessly in love with one another, but Cassie knows that loving him means reopening old scars and letting go of the baggage that has been weighing down on her. And so she finally left to face them. Now Matt is left with the choice, to follow his dreams...or run after the girl of his dreams.
Not enough ratings
50 Chapters
The Long Road
The Long Road
Nova Jane found love at a young age, but as those things sometimes go, they took different directions in life. Nova married Rob and has been living a life she can't seem to escape. One where every decision feels like a minefield of Robs' moods, and anything can set him off. She fantasizes about her first love to get through the abuse until she can save enough money to get out. It was then that she was happy and carefree. It helps to daydream about it, but it also hurts that it's forever beyond her reach.
Not enough ratings
12 Chapters
So Long, Stranger
So Long, Stranger
This marks the third year since Alan Cohen and I became mates, and today's finally the day of the Luna ceremony. As the ceremony begins, Alan takes my hand. But then he hesitates, refusing to move forward. I'm still trying to make sense of it when my adoptive sister, Eden Parker, suddenly breaks into the mind-link. She says she's just ended a failed mate bond with another Alpha and will be back within the hour. That's when I see a flicker of a smile on Alan's face. Then, without a second glance, he lets go of my hand and walks away. I turn to my adoptive brother, Dexter Parker, and my adoptive father, Hank Parker, hoping for some kind of comfort, only to realize they've already left the ceremony with Alan. And just like that, I became the joke of the entire pack. Eden sends me a photo. She's glowing beside Alan, her arm looped through Dexter's, with Hank beaming next to them. That's when I give up. I reach out through the mind-link to my birth father. "Dad, I'm ready to return to the Bloodmoon Pack."
9 Chapters
Hate War
Hate War
"Nina is that you. You look so beautiful" a guy said. "Have some drink" "No, she is leaving," said the harsh voice, and next thing I know champagne was all over my dress. I gasped as it stained it. Before I could react he grabbed me and dragged me to the pool area. I yanked my hand. "What the hell. You ruined my clothes" I half yelled. "What the fuck you are doing in my party looking like a slut" he yelled angrily while pinning me to the wall. Listening to his words my blood boiled. "Let me guess you came here to ruin my mood by showing your ugly face," he said letting me know his hate. "Stop giving so much importance to yourself. I'm here because of your mom. My face must be ugly but ugly souls like you are not even worth wasting my life's a single second" I said angrily pushed him but he didn't move. "I can hide my ugly soul behind this face but ugly ducklings like you carry their ugliness which can't even be hidden by beautiful dress because they stain everything around them with their ugliness," his words were hurting my soul but I won't cry. With all my power I pushed him making him fall in the pool. "Happy Birthday," I said with a smirk on my face but he didn't let me go. Things he did to me after it still send a shiver to my spine. One thing was clear on that day that I don't want to see his face again in this life. But I don't know what the hell I'm doing standing in front of him in Church wearing a wedding gown and looking at his angry victory smirk on his face with my glassy eyes.
9
101 Chapters

Related Questions

How Does The Iliad War Compare To Other Ancient War Epics?

5 Answers2025-07-31 22:57:21
The 'Iliad' stands out among ancient war epics for its intense focus on human emotions and the personal struggles of its heroes. Unlike 'The Epic of Gilgamesh,' which delves into existential themes, or 'The Mahabharata,' with its sprawling cast and philosophical depth, Homer’s work zeroes in on the wrath of Achilles and the futility of war. The Trojan War isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a crucible that tests honor, loyalty, and mortality. What fascinates me is how the 'Iliad' avoids glorifying war. While 'The Aeneid' later paints conflict as a means to empire, Homer shows the brutality and cost. Hector’s farewell to Andromache or Priam’s plea for his son’s body—these moments strip war of its grandeur. Comparatively, 'The Song of Roland' feels more one-dimensional, celebrating heroism without the same psychological weight. The 'Iliad' remains unmatched in its raw, poetic humanity.

How Did Achilles Die In The Iliad War?

4 Answers2025-08-01 22:37:01
Achilles' death in the 'Iliad' is one of those epic moments that sticks with you long after you've read it. While Homer doesn’t actually describe it in the poem itself, later traditions and ancient sources like the 'Aethiopis' fill in the gaps. The story goes that Achilles was shot in the heel by Paris, guided by the god Apollo. This was his only vulnerable spot, thanks to his mother Thetis dipping him in the River Styx as a baby but holding him by the heel. What makes this so tragic is that Achilles knew his fate—he was destined to die young if he chose glory over a long life. He chose glory, avenging Patroclus' death by killing Hector, but his own death came soon after. The irony is thick: the greatest warrior of the Greeks, nearly invincible, brought down by a single arrow to his one weak point. It’s a stark reminder of how even the mightiest heroes have their flaws, both literal and metaphorical.

What Was Hector'S Role In The Iliad War?

4 Answers2025-08-01 00:30:07
Hector was the greatest warrior of Troy in 'The Iliad,' embodying the ideals of honor, duty, and family. Unlike many heroes driven by personal glory, Hector fought primarily to protect his city and loved ones. His confrontation with Achilles is legendary, showcasing his bravery even in the face of certain death. Hector’s humanity shines through moments like his tender farewell to his wife Andromache and their son Astyanax, making him one of the most relatable figures in the epic. Beyond his martial prowess, Hector was a leader who carried the weight of Troy’s survival. His death marked a turning point in the war, symbolizing the inevitable fall of Troy. What makes Hector compelling is his tragic arc—he’s a hero bound by fate, yet his choices reflect deep moral courage. His legacy endures as a counterpoint to Achilles’ rage, offering a quieter but profound commentary on heroism and sacrifice.

In What Ways Does 'The Iliad' Depict The Consequences Of War?

4 Answers2025-03-27 11:29:03
'The Iliad' is a vivid portrayal of the grim reality of war that hits different emotions head-on. As a college student diving into this epic, I’m struck by how Achilles’ rage leads not just to personal tragedy but to widespread devastation. The relentless cycle of revenge, like when Hector kills Patroclus, shows that loss spirals outwards—one person's pain igniting others' fury. The battlefield is brutal, with vivid descriptions of death that feel hauntingly real. It's not just the warriors who suffer; families, cities, and the innocent are left in ruins. The gods meddling in human affairs adds a layer of absurdity to it all, highlighting how often the consequences of war are beyond anyone’s control. This epic serves as a timeless reminder that war brings suffering, a theme echoed in modern conflicts. If you're into deep and philosophical reads about the dark side of humanity, I'd suggest checking out 'All Quiet on the Western Front'.

Which Movies Depict The Iliad War Accurately?

5 Answers2025-07-31 11:37:16
As someone deeply fascinated by ancient epics and historical accuracy, I find that 'Troy' (2004) starring Brad Pitt is one of the most visually striking adaptations of the Iliad war. While it takes creative liberties for cinematic appeal, the core themes of honor, love, and fate remain intact. The film captures the grandeur of the Trojan War with its massive battle scenes and emotional depth, especially in Hector's portrayal. For a more traditional take, the 1956 film 'Helen of Troy' stays closer to Homer's narrative, focusing on the tragic romance between Paris and Helen. The black-and-white cinematography adds a timeless quality to the myth. Another notable mention is the miniseries 'The Odyssey' (1997), which, while not solely about the Iliad, provides context for the war's aftermath. Each adaptation offers a unique lens, but 'Troy' stands out for balancing spectacle and substance.

What Caused The Iliad War Between Greeks And Trojans?

4 Answers2025-08-01 14:51:14
The Iliad war, famously depicted in Homer's epic 'The Iliad,' was sparked by a complex web of divine intervention, human pride, and love. The immediate cause was the abduction of Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world, by Paris, a prince of Troy. Helen was married to Menelaus, king of Sparta, and her departure with Paris was seen as a grave insult to Greek honor, leading Menelaus and his brother Agamemnon to rally the Greek forces against Troy. The deeper roots of the conflict, however, lie in the judgment of Paris, where the Trojan prince was tasked with choosing the fairest among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Aphrodite promised him Helen's love in return for his favor, setting the stage for the war. The Greeks, bound by oaths to defend Helen's marriage, saw the abduction as a violation of xenia, the sacred laws of hospitality. This cultural and religious breach, combined with the Greeks' thirst for glory and the gods' manipulations, turned a personal dispute into a decade-long war that reshaped the ancient world.

How Does The Iliad Setting Influence The Trojan War?

5 Answers2025-08-17 04:31:28
The setting of 'The Iliad' plays a crucial role in shaping the Trojan War, not just as a backdrop but as an active participant in the narrative. The rugged terrain of Troy, with its high walls and strategic position near the sea, creates a sense of inevitability about the conflict. The Greeks are trapped by their obsession with honor and glory, unable to retreat even when the war drags on for years. The gods, who intervene frequently, are as much a part of the setting as the physical landscape, their whims and rivalries mirroring the human struggles below. The harsh conditions of the battlefield—dust, heat, and the ever-present threat of death—amplify the brutality of the war. Homer’s descriptions of the Scamander River running red with blood or the funeral pyres lighting up the night sky make the setting visceral and oppressive. The Trojan War isn’t just fought by men; it’s shaped by the land, the weather, and the divine, making the setting inseparable from the story itself.

What Happens To Aeneas In The Iliad After The Trojan War?

2 Answers2025-07-03 06:17:21
Aeneas’s journey after the fall of Troy is one of those epic survival stories that just hooks you. Unlike most Trojan heroes who get wiped out, Aeneas becomes this symbol of resilience. The 'Iliad' barely scratches the surface, but you can see the seeds of his destiny—especially when Poseidon casually drops that he’s fated to survive and lead the Trojans’ legacy. Homer leaves him mid-battle, but the real drama unfolds later. Imagine carrying your elderly father on your back while dragging your kid through flaming ruins, all because some goddess mom whispered, 'Run, my son, your story isn’t over.' That’s peak heroic material right there. Post-'Iliad,' Aeneas becomes the ultimate wanderer. Virgil’s 'Aeneid' picks up where Homer leaves off, turning him into a refugee with divine homework: found a new city that’ll eventually birth Rome. The contrast between his 'Iliad' role—a minor noble—and his 'Aeneid' glow-up is wild. He’s no longer just another soldier; he’s the guy who weathers storms, ditches Dido (heartbreaking, by the way), and even journeys to the Underworld. His arc feels like a video game protagonist unlocking his true purpose after the tutorial level (Trojan War). The 'Iliad' sets the stage, but Aeneas’s real trials—loss, love, and legacy—are what make him legendary.
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status