Who’s the Real Leader

In Book 1 of the Iliad we are introduced to some main themes in the poem. The first one, rage, signifies that the epic is going to be filled with vengeance, selfishness, or pride. It must be central to the poem because it is the first word we read. The quarrelling between Agamemnon and Achilles strikes me because, as the reader, I feel there is tension built up from before. Achilles is portrayed as a relentless fighter, who seems dangerous and not to be tantalized. Agamemnon is portrayed to be a mediocre commander, lacking in maturity and leadership skills. Agamemnon appears to make rash decisions, as evident in the way he speaks back to Achilles. Immediately, I feel more drawn to side with Achilles. Agamemnon appears to lack confidence in his own fighting skills, which he overcompensates by abusing his leadership power. He takes Achilles’ battle rewards and refuses to compromise. Achilles then retreats and admits he has no leader. It is clear when Agamemnon’s leadership is questioned because he argues by questioning his opposition. This is the same as answering a question with another question. This shows Agamemnon’s immaturity because he overcompensates for his poor fighting skills. This is not a leader that any Greek would willingly fight for in my opinion, and it makes the reader favor Achilles over any other character. This is further reinforced by the fact that Homer opens the epic by calling out to the muse. This goddess signs through him to recount the story, which shows the reader that this epic is about Achilles.