Death And Grieving in Homer’s Iliad as Illustrated by Dr. Emily Wilson

Abstract

Emily Wilson's translation of the final eight books of Homer's Iliad offers a powerful look at how people cope with death and grief. The epic poem, traditionally attributed to Homer, delves into the enduring impact of loss, especially on its central figure, Achilles. The Iliad vibrantly portrays the fatalities of war and the dreadful effects of grief. It was seen gaudily in Achilles's descent into rage after the death of his friend, Patroclus. Though Achilles's grief deviates from modern theories, it showcases stages of grief like denial, depression and anger. Additionally, the Iliad offers valuable insight of historical suffering. Ancient Greek concepts like 'divine madness' or 'theia mania,' providing a historical lens on people’s understanding of the pain of loss during that era.