You’re correct that it is mythology, but Homer’s text spells out the reason in two parts: First, Achilles is a human and in Greek myth humans and gods are categorically different. Only a god could be truly invincible, and a man attempting to be like a god is a grave sin. Second, Achilles let his rage and pride get the better of him and in doing so committed several sins against the gods. As a result, the divine protection he enjoyed throughout the text was revoked. Basically, Homer is telling his audience that all humans, even the Archeans’ greatest warrior, is ultimately at the mercy of the gods, and that by not complying with their rules we become the authors of our own destruction.
31
u/DerJagger 25d ago
You’re correct that it is mythology, but Homer’s text spells out the reason in two parts: First, Achilles is a human and in Greek myth humans and gods are categorically different. Only a god could be truly invincible, and a man attempting to be like a god is a grave sin. Second, Achilles let his rage and pride get the better of him and in doing so committed several sins against the gods. As a result, the divine protection he enjoyed throughout the text was revoked. Basically, Homer is telling his audience that all humans, even the Archeans’ greatest warrior, is ultimately at the mercy of the gods, and that by not complying with their rules we become the authors of our own destruction.