ET CETERA ANTIQUA

📝 Classical Civilisation essay, Year 11. Mark: 7/8. Teacher feedback: “Very good, well-made points with an excellent focus on the question. Make sure your points are all supported by specific, detailed evidence from the text.”

Source A mainly shows the horrors of war through its effects on those left behind. Andromache says to Hector, “you have no pity for your little son or your wretched wife.” This shows that war not only affects the soldiers themselves but their relatives as well. This also shows the tragedy of war, because if Hector dies, “little” Astyanax will have to grow up without a father, and Andromache will become a widow. Another way Homer shows the horror of war is by writing about the destruction it causes. Andromache says “Seven of my brothers… Achilles sent to Hades.” This shows that everything — her whole family — has been taken from her, and soon Hector will be too. This shows the horror of war by highlighting the total destruction and devastation it causes.

Another way in which Homer shows this is by giving his characters backstories. For example, when Diomedes goes on a killing spree, Homer gives all the victims names and families, which makes their deaths more painful for the reader. Names give people identity, so these people aren’t just faceless enemies — they have a connection to the reader. This shows the horrors of war because it highlights the fact that all the people who died had families and friends, who will never be able to see them again.

Another way Homer shows this is through the gods’ intervention in mortal wars, for example when Apollo joins the fight. This shows that humans have no control in their fates, because the gods are more powerful. This shows the horror of war because of the lack of control these soldiers had in their lives. The gods provided a huge advantage, but when a god decided to kill you, you can’t escape.

A final way in which Homer conveys the horrors of war is when Hector’s son is scared of Hector’s helmet, which represents Hector’s role as a warrior. This shows the horrors of war because it divides and tears up families. Hector is forced to choose between his role as a warrior (as the “mainstay of Troy”) and as a father. The helmet could also be symbolising war itself, which emphasises how horrific it is because it scares everyone — even baby Astyanax.

In conclusion, Homer effectively conveys the horrors of war by showing its effects on those left behind, how little control humans have in their own fates, and its role in dividing up families.