How Does Homer Present The Character Of Achilles

Homer presents Achilles in many different facets in the reading this week. As a man, I think that Achilles is portrayed as being passionate, specifically in regards to the death of Patroclus. He feels like it is his duty to avenge his companion, and he makes that clear when he says to Hector, "So you thought you could get away with it didn't you Hector? Killing Patroclus . . . You fool. His avenger was far greater, and far closer, than you could imagine" (22.365-369. pg. 266-267). I think that this ties into the portrayal of Achilles being a person that loves also. His love for Patroclus is evident as shown in that he felt the need to avenge his death, and in his grief for him, "Tears wet his face as he remembered his friend. He tossed and
turned, yearning for Patroclus" (24. 6-7. pg. 271). This side of Achilles is a stark contrast to the portrayal of him as a warrior. As a man and a person who loves, he could be seen as soft. While he is seen as hardened, brutal, and powerful as a warrior. The pleas of Hector's family for him to come back behind the wall instead of fighting Achilles and facing a guaranteed death prove Achilles' power; "So come inside the wall, my boy. Live to save the men and women of Troy. Don't just hand Achilles the glory and throw your life away" (22.63-66. pg. 259-260).