The “Iliad” is one of the oldest works of Western literature and an ancient Greek epic poem that was traditionally attributed to Homer in the 8th century. The Iliad was set during the Trojan War and focused on a few weeks in the final year of the Trojan War. The Trojan War which began when Troy, a Paris prince abducted Helen, the wife of Menelaus, the king of Sparta was primarily documented in Homer’s epic poems, the “Iliad” and the “Odyssey.” Honour, glory, fate themes and consequences of war were explored in Iliad explored in the poem which made a foundational work of Western literature. Themes explored in the Iliad profoundly influenced Western literature and culture by providing a rich tapestry of themes, characters, and events centred around the Trojan War. Over centuries Iliad has captivated audiences and served as a source of inspiration for countless literary, artistic, and commercial works. Examining Disney movie Brave which presents a unique reimagining of the Trojan War this paper explores the influence of the Iliad on literature, the arts, and commercial works. Additionally, delving into various themes discussed this comparative analysis draws connections between The Iliad and Brave and examines similarities and differences in their presentation from the Trojan War.
One Literary, Artistic, Or Commercial Work Between 500 BCE And the Present That Refers Extensively to The Trojan War
Homer’s “The Iliad” is an example of literary work that extensively refers to the Trojan War. “The Iliad” believed to have been composed around the 8th century BCE has served as a primary source for the events surrounding the Trojan War and foundational texts of Western literature. In contrast, “Brave” released in 2012 is a present Disney animated film whose influence on “The Iliad” makes it character archetypes and thematic parallels. Similarly, “The Iliad” and “Brave” focus on familial relationship complexities. For example, in “The Iliad,” the strained relationship between Achilles and his mother Thetis is a prominent motif. Correspondingly, in “Brave,” the strained relationship between Princess Merida and her mother Queen Elinor reflects on the central conflict revolves around familial relationship’s complexities. Merida often clashes with her mother’s expectations as seeks independence leading to tensions between Achilles and Thetis.
Homer’s “The Iliad” referring extensively to the Trojan War depicts the consequences of pride and stubbornness as evidenced in Achilles’ refusal to fight for the Greeks due to Agamemnon’s disrespect is a pivotal plot point. On the other hand, in “Brave,” Merida driven by pride and desire for autonomy her impulsive actions trigger disastrous consequences. Therefore, the above themes of hubris portrayed in The Iliad” and “Brave” make the literary work refer extensively to the Trojan War. Moreover, features of prominent female characters who defy traditional gender roles discussed in “The Iliad” and “Brave” exert influence on societal structure. For example, Helen of Troy and Athena and Merida’s acts of defying traditional gender roles reflect on enduring relevance of themes explored in the Trojan War. Therefore, parallels between “Iliad” and “Brave” provide a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Homer’s epic and its continued impact on literature, film, and popular culture.
Themes Discussed in Class About The Iliad And How Each Theme Relate to My Work
Homer’s “The Iliad” influence on literature, arts, and commercial works is profound and multifaceted. Various themes explored in class about “The Iliad” relate and resonate across cultures and centuries to provide valuable insights into societal dynamics, morality complexities and human nature. For example, “The Classic Hero” exemplified by various heroic figures has served as archetypes for countless literary and artistic works throughout history. Therefore, Achilles epitomises the classical hero in “The Iliad” and displays qualities of courage to embody the archetype of a hero as his internal struggles and conflicts highlight human aspects of heroism. Merida in “Brave” by challenging societal norms and standing up for what she believes in demonstrates courage. Examining “The Classic Hero” an individual gains a deeper insight into the human condition that influences literature or art.
Secondly, the “Free Will Versus Fate” theme which portrays the fate of tension emerging between free will and fate shows how characters struggle to reconcile their agency with a predetermined course. The “Free Will Versus Fate” theme is centred on events that are dictated by the gods. Relating free will versus fate critically with work, in the literature world people use the theme to users exercise their free will to engage with others, ask questions, and seek information. Thirdly, friendship and loyalty themes discussed in class pertain to “The Iliad” through the relationships of Achilles with Patroclus, and Hector with his comrades. Established connections underscore the importance of solidarity and support in times of adversity. This Influences literature and art as people uphold it in their interactions with users. Therefore, in reality, friendship and loyalty themes foster trust and reliability resulting in the establishment of meaningful connections in society. Incorporating the above themes from “The Iliad” into a critical analysis offers a fascinating lens that can be used to explore the intersection of classical literature, human psychology, and technological advancements.
Way in Which the Work Differs from and/or Is Similar to The Iliad In Its Presentation of Events and Characters of The Trojan War
“The Iliad” influence on literature, arts, and commercial works has fostered far-reaching with countless adaptations spanning centuries, for example, “Brave,” which draws heavily from the Trojan War narrative. Therefore, comparing and contrasting “The Iliad” with “Brave,” discerns unique ways in which each work presents the Trojan War events and characters, showcasing similarities and differences.
Similarly, “The Iliad,” an epic poem recounts the portion of the Trojan War focusing rage of Achilles and the consequences of his wrath. In that regard, “The Iliad,” presents mortals and a world of gods where fate, honour and glory shape a narrative. Similarly “Brave,” takes a more whimsical and fantastical approach to the Trojan War narrative by drawing clear parallels to the epic conflict. skilled archer character of Merida and princess who seeks to defy tradition and forge her path is analogous to courageous warriors similar to one discussed in “The Iliad” about Achilles. Moreover, works feature prominent parental conflicts that drive the central narrative. For example, in “Brave,” Merida’s conflict with her mother, Queen Elinor, revolves around tradition and autonomy issues while in “The Iliad,” Achilles’ feud with Agamemnon stems from a dispute over pride and honour. Similarly, conflicts exhibited in the two works humanize characters and motivate them illustrating timeless themes of the struggle for independence and generational tension. Additionally, Brave” and “The Iliad” drew inspiration from events and characters of the Trojan War.
“The Iliad” different from “Brave” is firmly rooted in the realm of Greek mythology, with gods and goddesses actively intervening in mortals’ affairs. On the other hand, “Brave” adopts a more secular approach that eschews divine intervention seeking to favour a grounded and relatable narrative. Secondly, while Brave” places more emphasis on the personal journey of its protagonist, Merida, in “The Iliad” the heroic exploits of warriors like Achilles and Hector are the main work’s concern. Brave” different from “The Iliad” discusses self-discovery, family dynamics themes and role of communication in literature in a way that diverges from the martial focus of the epic poem. Thirdly, as “Brave” offers a fresh interpretation that resonates with contemporary audiences through its emphasis on personal growth and familial relationships “The Iliad” remains a timeless epic of heroism and honour.
Reasons for Having Differences and/or Similarities Mentioned Above
Differences and similarities between “The Iliad” and “Brave” are attributed to the cultural contexts in which each work was produced. For example, in “The Iliad” emerged from ancient Greek society, the cultural context supported the integration of honour, glory, and divine intervention concepts into the worldview. On the other hand, “Brave” which emerged from modern Western culture, individualism and autonomy cultural values made it different from “The Iliad”. As a result of informing different portrayals of characters and themes in each work, cultural shifts shaped respective narratives.
Secondly, above mentioned differences and similarities between “The Iliad” and “Brave” are based on narrative priorities. For example, in “The Iliad” to reflect on the values of its ancient Greek audience the narrative primarily prioritized heroic action and portrayal of larger-than-life characters. In “Brave” which aimed at a broad audience, the narrative focused on character development and emotional storytelling. Related to the genre of the work, “Brave” focuses on Merida the personal journey of its protagonist and “The Iliad” focusing on the heroic exploits of warriors like Achilles and Hector explains the source of difference.
Thirdly, differences and similarities between “The Iliad” and “Brave” were initiated by audience expectations and preferences. For example, in “The Iliad,” Ancient Greek audiences being familiar with myths and legends depicted they expecting a narrative that upheld a certain level of reverence for tradition and mythology. “Brave” whose target was modern audiences had to adapt the Trojan War narrative and incorporate elements of humor, adventure, and emotion that appeal to the audience’s expectations.
Lastly, a socio-political context where two works were produced influenced respective depictions of gender roles, heroism, and other themes, resulting in differences and some similarities. “The Iliad,” emerged from a patriarchal society in ancient Greece where masculine underrated feminism portrayed values and norms that undermine women’s capability. In contrast, “Brave” being created in the modern era where gender roles are upheld presents an egalitarian vision of heroism that aligns with modern ideals of female empowerment and gender equality.
Conclusion
“The Iliad” influence on literature, arts, and commercial works since 500 BCE has been profound and far-reaching and has an indelible mark on various aspects of human culture. “the Iliad” work drawing upon a rich tapestry of themes and motifs associated with the Trojan War has contributed to a broader tradition of literature and art. In the modern world, “The Iliad” has drawn inspiration from timeless themes and narratives of “The Iliad.” Comparing ancient and modern works, “The Iliad” and “Brave” have drawn a rich tapestry of themes and motifs associated with the Trojan War in different ways and for different purposes. The two works in modern literature have contributed broader tradition of literature and art that draw inspiration from the timeless themes and narratives of the Iliad. legacy of “The Iliad” through epic poetry and animated film today continues to resonate across time and culture, reminding today’s generation of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate human experience.
Works Cited
Sutrisno, Bejo, and Matresia Aprilia. “Depiction Of Princess Merida In Disney Princess Movie “Brave” Directed By Mark Andrews And Brenda Chapman.” JELL (Journal of English Language and Literature) STIBA-IEC Jakarta 5.01 (2020). 89-96: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339765606_ma_DEPICTION_OF_PRINCESS_MERIDA_IN_DISNEY_PRINCESS_MOVIE_BRAVE_DIRECTED_BY_MARK_ANDREWS_AND_BRENDA_CHAPMAN
Chapman, Brenda. “Brave Movie Script in PDF format”. (2021): 1-21. .https://www.screenwritersnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Brave-2012.pdf
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