Achilles Rejection of Agamemnons Offer - Essay Example

Introduction Greek’s heroic culture and value system were based on religious beliefs and superstitions. Value systems in contemporary society are responsible for guiding action within society. This essay aptly examines the Achilles right to refuse Agamemnon’s offer of reconciliation and continue out of the battle in book nine. Achilles was not right in refusing Agamemnon’s offer of reconciliation because he was acting out of pride. We are told that he did not take time to think about the offer rather he was swift in turning it down.

Staying out of the battle did not only affect Agamemnon but also affected his friends who had volunteered to participate in the battle. Greeks heroes were known to perform heroic deeds, and Achilles is the opposite of this. He could have used the opportunity to accept the offer and show his heroism. His action of refusing to participate in the battle stained his heroic code of honor as both his friends and the Greeks questioned whether he was a patriot to his country (Homer & John, 345).