Great Books I   Fall 2008

The Iliad

"How much does pride cost?"

Paper #1 - Due September 30, 11:59 p.m.

Tragic Hero Definition

CLASS POSTERS 09.25.08

  September 8

Books I-IV

Who behaves more properly in the dispute?

What are the rules of proper conduct?

Can we blame humans for their actions?

Explain IV:43-58

September 11

Books V-VIII

Bring five pennies to class.

Look up the Greek word "aristeia" on the web and formulate its definition in your own words.

Find examples of aristeia in The Iliad.  Describe how it manifests itself and what it brings about.

Begin to form the list:  “The rules of war/warrior include…” Who upholds each rule? Who breaks them?

Who gives the strongest argument for Hector to remain in Troy?

Find text that characterizes each god.

September 15

Books IX-XII

3 Groups will Present

Achilles - What are Achilles core principles,  values, virtues, or vices? Alanna, Chelsie, Grant, Hannah,  Zach, & Zach  

Hector - How is Agamemnon a symbol of the Greek nation, the Greek mind? See X.100-117. Alex H., Brittany, Danica, Devon, Ethan,  Matt,  Nakeisha

Trojans - What is needed to end the war? Adeline, Alejandro, Brendin, Lance, Lauren, Paul

Each group gets 20 minutes to creatively lead the discussion and present their findings.

 

  

  

  September 18

Books XIII-XVI

Develop a list of god/mortal personifications. Determine which human best personifies each of the gods.

What does Sarpedon's corpse symbolize?

Write an obituary & eulogy for Patroclus. Is his death tragic?

What is the relationship between the gods and fate?

 

September 22

XVII-XX

Why does Achilles decide to re-enter the war?

In what way do each of the following characters demonstrate the ebb and flow of the war:  Achilles, Hector, Agamemnon, gods.

What part of Achilles' personality does Patroclus represent?

What does Patroclus' corpse symbolize?

What is the symbolism of Achilles' loss of armor to Patroclus?

 

 

 September 25

XXI-XXIV

What is the complete code of the warrior?

Who matches this code better - Hector or Achilles?

Who is the greater hero, Hector or Achilles?

What does the river symbolize in Book XXI?

What line or group of lines best summarizes the entire poem?

Why is the ending perfect?

What lesson does Priam teach Achilles?