Pride in the Iliad: The Embassy to Achilles Eryn Lee College

Throughout the Iliad, conflict commonly arise between characters regardless of whether they are allies, close friends, or enemies; many of these conflicts arise due to issues involving pride, power, glory, and honor. In Book Nine of the Iliad, Agamemnon's embassy utilizes logos and ethos in order to convince Achilles to rejoin the Greeks in battle. These arguments ultimately fail due to Achilles's characterization as someone who cannot be 'bought'. Rather, he is motivated by his sense of honor and pride, which leads to his making stubborn decisions.

After deciding to make amends with Achilles by offering him great rewards, Agamemnon sends Phoenix, Ajax, and Odysseus to Achilles in hopes of convincing him to help the Greeks defeat the Trojans. Each man takes a turn in reasoning with the son of Peleus; Odysseus presents a logical argument, and Phoenix and Ajax each follow with an emotional plea.

Odysseus is first to plea to Achilles, beginning by complimenting Achilles and explaining how the Greeks are close to defeat. He then relays Agamemnon's offer word for word, listing off the extensive amount of prizes Achilles would gain if he were to accept their offer. Odysseus employs logic to present his argument, as he makes it clear...