Why did Achilles fight for Agamemnon? This question has intrigued scholars and readers of the Iliad for centuries. The epic poem by Homer provides various reasons for Achilles’ involvement in the Trojan War, which was initially instigated by Agamemnon’s decision to seize Briseis, a Trojan woman, from Achilles’ friend and ally, Prince Hector of Troy. This act of aggression by Agamemnon set off a chain of events that led to Achilles’ participation in the war. This article aims to explore the various factors that contributed to Achilles’ decision to fight alongside Agamemnon, despite their strained relationship.
Achilles’ motivation to fight for Agamemnon can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, as a member of the Greek army, Achilles felt a sense of loyalty and duty to fight for his people and their cause. The Greeks were united under Agamemnon, who served as the leader of the Greek forces. By fighting alongside Agamemnon, Achilles was essentially fighting for the collective interests of his nation.
Secondly, Achilles’ decision to fight for Agamemnon was influenced by his familial ties. Achilles was a prince of the Myrmidons, a people who were closely aligned with the Greeks. As a prince, he had a responsibility to defend his people and their honor. Furthermore, Achilles was also related to Agamemnon through his mother, Thetis, who was a Nereid, a goddess of the sea. This connection to the gods may have instilled in Achilles a sense of pride and duty to fight for the divine cause.
Another reason for Achilles’ involvement in the war was his desire for glory and recognition. The Iliad depicts Achilles as a warrior of unparalleled skill and bravery. By fighting for Agamemnon, Achilles sought to solidify his reputation as the greatest warrior of the Trojan War. The epic poem emphasizes the importance of honor and reputation in the ancient Greek society, and Achilles was no exception.
However, it is important to note that Achilles’ relationship with Agamemnon was fraught with tension. The initial conflict between the two arose when Agamemnon, acting as the leader of the Greek army, seized Briseis from Achilles. This act of disrespect and aggression was a direct affront to Achilles’ honor and pride. Despite this, Achilles initially chose to fight for Agamemnon, as he believed that the greater good of his people and the war effort outweighed his personal grievances.
As the war progressed, Achilles’ loyalty to Agamemnon waned. The conflict between the two reached its climax when Agamemnon dishonorably humiliated Achilles by taking Achilles’ shield and armor from his tent. This act of betrayal by Agamemnon led to Achilles’ withdrawal from the war, as he sought revenge and retribution for the dishonor he had suffered.
In conclusion, Achilles’ decision to fight for Agamemnon was influenced by a combination of loyalty, familial ties, and the pursuit of glory. While the relationship between the two warriors was strained, Achilles initially chose to fight for Agamemnon due to his sense of duty and responsibility. However, as the war progressed and Agamemnon’s actions became increasingly dishonorable, Achilles’ loyalty waned, leading to his withdrawal from the conflict. The complex dynamics between Achilles and Agamemnon serve as a powerful narrative device in the Iliad, highlighting the complexities of human emotions and the nature of war.
