“The Iliad” is the oldest epic that narrates a few weeks during 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.” Throughout history, various themes explored in the epic have profoundly influenced Western literature and arts. For example, honour, glory, and fate themes have influenced Western literature and culture by providing a rich tapestry of themes, characters, and events centred around the Trojan War. The epic over centuries has captivated audiences and served as a source of inspiration for countless literary, artistic, and commercial works. Homer’s Epic and Disney’s “Brave” as an examples of works that refer extensively to the Trojan War they have intensely influenced literature
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 the foundational texts of Western literature (Hinds, Gareth 1). In contrast, “Brave,” released in 2012, is a present-day Disney animated film whose influence on “The Iliad” makes for character archetypes and thematic parallels. Similarly, “The Iliad” and “Brave” focus on familial relationship complexities. For example, the strained relationship between Achilles and his mother discussed in “The Iliad,” portrays a prominent motif. Similarly, the strained relationship between Princess Merida and her mother, Queen Elinor in “Brave,” reflects the central conflict’s complexities and prominent motif in the society (Chapman, Brenda 3). Merida often clashes with her mother’s expectations as she 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, which is a pivotal plot point (Hinds, Gareth 2). On the other hand, in “Brave,” Merida is driven by pride and a desire for autonomy, and her impulsive actions trigger disastrous consequences (Chapman, Brenda 5). 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. Parallels between “Iliad” and “Brave” provide a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Homer’s epic and its continued impact on literature, arts and or commercial culture. Acts of defying traditional gender roles exhibited in the two works reflect on enduring relevance of themes explored in the Trojan War.
Themes Discussed in Class About the Iliad and How Each Theme Relates to My Work
Homer’s “The Iliad” influence on literature, the arts, and commercial works is profound and multifaceted. Various themes explored in class about “The Iliad” relate to 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 an archetype for countless literary and artistic works throughout history. Therefore, Achilles epitomizes 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 (Hinds, Gareth 3). Merida in “Brave” challenges societal norms and stands up for what she believes in, demonstrating 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 to work, in the literature world, people use the theme that 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 (Hinds, Gareth 2). 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.
How 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 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 on the 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 (Sutrisno, et al. 91). The skilled archer character of Merida, a princess who seeks to defy tradition and forge her path, is analogous to courageous warriors similar to those discussed in “The Iliad” about Achilles. Moreover, the 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 (Chapman, Brenda 8). 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 and seeks to favour a grounded and relatable narrative (Sutrisno, et al. 92). 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 the role of communication in literature in a way that diverges from the martial focus of the epic poem (Chapman, Brenda 13). Thirdly, “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.
Explanation of Source of Differences and Similarities Mentioned Above
“The Iliad” and “Brave” comparison and contrast were triggered by various factors. Firstly, the cultural contexts in which each work was produced were the main source of differences and similarities between “The Iliad” and “Brave”. In “The Iliad,” which 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, had individualism and autonomy as cultural values that 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, the 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 the portrayal of larger-than-life characters (Hinds, Gareth 3). 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 the 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, were expecting a narrative that upheld a certain level of reverence for tradition and mythology (Hinds, Gareth 3). “Brave,” whose target was modern audiences, had to adapt the Trojan War narrative and incorporate elements of humour, adventure, and emotion that appealed 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 undermined 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 left an indelible mark on various aspects of human culture. Comparing the epic with modern art like “Brave” it has greatly changed thinking patterns and social norms prevalent in today’s literature, art and commercial works. “The Iliad” has drawn inspiration from the 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 to a broader tradition of literature and art that draws inspiration from the timeless themes and narratives of the Iliad. The 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. “The Iliad,” an epic drawing upon a rich tapestry of themes and motifs associated with the Trojan War, has contributed to a broader tradition of literature and art.
Works Cited
Sutrisno, Bejo, and Matresia Aprilia, “Depiction of Princess Merida in the 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
Hinds, Gareth. The Iliad. Gareth Hinds, (2019): 1-4. https://media.btsb.com/TitleLessonPlans/3493.pdf
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