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  • Essay / The contributions of Homer's Book XXIV - 498

    Greek literature, in particular Homer's Odyssey, remains a masterpiece due to its structure. Plus, an abundance of wisdom springs from its pages. Aristophanes and Aristarchus, two Greek critics, claimed that Homer's Odyssey ended with these lines: "Rejoicing in each other, they returned to their beds, the old familiar place which they loved so much" ( XXIII: 337-338). Although, at first glance, Book XXIV seems unnecessary, its complete omission leaves Homer's work unfinished. Book XXIV presents a wonderful study of the human condition. The initial meeting between Achilles and Agamemnon seems insignificant, but the overall concept gives importance to the book. Since The Odyssey meditates on the nature of civilization, it is consistent with Homer concluding his epic with a lesson dealing with the inherent qualities of humanity. At the beginning of the book, Homer's character, Achilles, accurately highlights that life does not go as planned and, in turn, this becomes a downfall of man. First, Homer draws attention to the human thought process. Achilles tells Agamemnon that “we thought” that a different fate awaited Agamemnon because of his situation (XXIV: 25-31). Homer also identifies the tendency to dwell on different consequences. He illustrates this by asserting that “if only” Agamemnon died otherwise, the possibility of glory and fame awaited his son (XXIV: 32-35). Finally, Homer concludes his lesson by proclaiming man's way of thinking as incorrect and "not so." He accuses Agamemnon of being “destined” for everything that will happen to him (XXIV: 36). Homer also sees his character, Amphimedon, highlight another human trait: the tendency to blame others for the outcome of one's actions, even when he knowingly commits a wrongdoing. Homer illustrates this behavior by writing how Amphimedon blames Penelope for his death because of her indecision, even after admitting that he made her finish her weaving "against her will" and "forced her" (XXIV: 161). Amphimedon also attributes his disappearance to Odysseus due to deception. He condemns Odysseus for disguising himself (XXIV: 171-177), although Amphimedon openly admits to attacking Odysseus (XXIV: 178). By exchanging these stories (XXIV: 1-226), Homer transmits his knowledge about life, responsibility and accountability. Since he wrote about the nature of civilization, Homer must emphasize the importance of family relationships. As a result, the epic requires Odysseus to visit his father to inform Laertes of his well-being..