'The Iliad' offers an extended reflection on the nature of war itself. The text seems both fascinated and horrified by war and all that it entails. Discuss 'The Iliad' in the light of this statement.

Homer has never been surpassed in his ability to portray both the beauty and horror of war. War brings out the best in his heroes, as they tap previously unknown reserves of strength, courage, and loyalty. But war also can bring out the worst in men. The endless carnage and cruelty of the poem dehumanizes many of the men of the Iliad, and Homer never shirks from depicting the brutality of battle. Although Homer glorifies warriors, the Iliad is full of an unmistakable love for peace.

The Iliad offers an extended reflection on the nature of war, describing both the
heroism and horror that the war entails. Discuss.