Book IX: The Embassy to Achilles explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Wrath and Its Consequences

  Achilles' enduring anger against Agamemnon drives the plot, as he rejects all attempts at reconciliation, endangering the Greek army.

• Pride and Reconciliation

  Agamemnon's offer of gifts and the embassy's pleas highlight the struggle between pride and the need for unity.

• Honor and Glory

  Achilles' refusal is rooted in his sense of dishonor, while the embassy appeals to the glory he could gain by saving the Greeks.

Characters to notice

• Agamemnon

  Proposes retreat to the Greeks, weeping and lamenting his fate, but is rebuked by Diomed and Nestor.

• Diomedes

  Boldly opposes Agamemnon's plan to retreat, insisting the Greeks will fight on until Troy falls.

• Nestor

  Advises a feast for the elders and the posting of guards, urging prudent counsel in the crisis.

• Achilles

  Rejects the embassy's offers, expressing his bitterness over Agamemnon's insult and his resolve to return to Phthia.

• Odysseus

  Leads the embassy to Achilles, eloquently presenting Agamemnon's gifts and pleas for reconciliation.

• Ajax

  Part of the embassy to Achilles, later speaks bluntly to him about the need for compassion.

• Phoenix

  Accompanies the embassy and appeals to Achilles with personal memories and wise counsel.

• Thrasymedes

  Appointed as one of the leaders of the night guard, following Nestor's advice.

Key passages

• “Hateful to me, as are the gates of hell, Is he who, hiding one thing in his heart, Utters another.”

  Achilles declares that he despises anyone who says one thing but means another, emphasizing his demand for honesty.

  Achilles expresses his distrust of Agamemnon's overtures and his own commitment to speaking plainly.

• “One of two gifts the son Of wily Saturn hath bestowed on thee: High rank and rule o'er all the rest he gave, But gave thee not the nobler quality Of fortitude.”

  Diomed tells Agamemnon that while Zeus gave him royal power, he lacks the courage needed for a king.

  Diomed boldly criticizes Agamemnon's leadership and cowardice in proposing retreat.

• “Equal is the meed Of him who stands aloof and him who fights Manfully; both the coward and the brave Are held in equal honor, and they die An equal death—the idler and the man Of mighty deeds.”

  Achilles argues that in this war, there is no reward for effort—cowards and heroes are treated the same, and all face death alike.

  Achilles justifies his withdrawal by pointing out the lack of recognition for his sacrifices.