Visual Depictions and Narrative Functions of Achilles’ Death in Homer’s The Iliad

Abstract

This paper explores the narrative strategies and symbolic significance of Achilles’ death in Homer’s The Iliad, focusing on how Homer employs visual depictions to enhance the hero’s image and convey the theme of mortality. Through a detailed analysis of textual foreshadowing, character reactions, and symbolic imagery, the study reveals how Achilles’ death serves as a central motif that underscores the epic’s themes of heroism and the inevitability of death. Additionally, the paper examines ancient Greek art, such as vase paintings and sculptures, to provide a visual complement to the literary narrative. These artistic representations capture key moments that highlight Achilles’ heroic status and the divine interventions that seal his fate, aligning closely with the literary themes of destiny and mortality. The research also considers the cultural and philosophical concerns of ancient Greek society, reflecting on how the interplay between literary and visual depictions reinforces the cultural belief in the power of fate and the transient nature of human life. By integrating textual and visual analyses, this paper offers a comprehensive understanding of the enduring legacy of Achilles and the thematic depth of The Iliad.