0.

What thematic purposes might the death of Sarpedon in book 16 serve at this point in the poem? Consider some of this Trojan ally’s earlier appreances in the poem (e.g., books 5 and 12), as well as the circumstances in which he meets his demise. What biographical and other information about Sarpedon is emphasized? Consider some figures who might be analogical to Sarpedon and how they and their deaths (or survivals) are presented.

1.

Look carefully at the description of the shield of Achilleus in book 18.478-607 (pages 388-91). What is significant about the scenes depicted on the shield? How do they (or don’t they) relate to the events of the Iliad? Such a passage is known in rhetorical terminology as an ecphrasis (Greek for "description"). Consider the ways in which the shield as described does and does not exhibit characteristics of visual art. What are some specific aspects that seem not possible for an actual work of sculpture?

2.

What is the narrative function and effect of the battle between the gods in Book 21.328-513 (pages 427-32) within the context of the final books of the Iliad? How does it color our perception of what follows?

3.

Consider the funeral games for Patroklos in Book 23 (pages 457-74). What do the various events reveal about those participating in them? How do sporting events relate to the actions of war? Do they color our perspective on war? Does Achilleus' behavior during the games reveal anything about his character?

4.

Keep track of the similes in the final books, especially those dealing with Achilleus and Hektor. Is any type of simile particularly prominent? Do they represent a particular point of view (i.e., do they reveal partisanship for one party or another? are they even-handed?). Do they move the reader's perceptions of the action in a particular direction?

5.

Keep close track of Achilleus in the final books. Does his character change or develop? Does he learn anything? Compare in particular his remarks at the end of the poem with those he offers in book 9 to the embassy of Odysseus, Phoinix, and Aias.

6.

In the last books of the poem there are a number of scenes of mourning and commemoration of the dead; consider Thetis with Achilleus at the beginning of 17, Briseis mourning for Patroklos in 18, the games for Patroklos in 23, responses to the death of Hektor at the end of 22 and 24. What emerge as significant themes in these scenes? How are they similar and different?