Unfolding

Looking upon the battlefield contended with the progress made, Zeus takes his leave from the fighting. Activities do not quiet in his absence, however, and soon the Achaeans again face the Trojan army. Most notably, Hektor succeeds in killing Amphimachus, as he throws his lance at Teucer who in turn dodges the attack. Enraged by the loss of his grandson at the hands of a Trojan, Poseidon possesses Idomenus with a fitting rage. It is next that Meriones and Idomeneus pair up to lead charge against the Trojans. In their success, Deiphobus becomes wounded amongst the peril of many other Trojans. Wrought with exhaustion are the Trojans, so much so that the fighting spirit within them seems to have withdrawn. In light of this, Hektor agrees to postpone battle only to be awestruck upon viewing of his army, for the majority have been slain. In conclusion of battle, a towering eagle appears alongside Ajax in good omen.

Encouraged and aided by Poseidon, the Achaeans are granted extra strength and continue onward. Focused on aiding the Achaeans, Goddess Hera proceeds to deceive Zeus in an elaborate trick of sexual entrancement. Afterward, Zeus falls asleep in the bed of Hera, allowing Poseidon to steer the Greeks toward successful battle. Ajax succeeds in injuring Hektor, who is then carried off the battlefield, resulting in significant fatalities for the Trojans.

            Upon waking, Zeus surveys the damage done and scolds Hera, “Hopeless one, it was your evil design, your treachery, Hera, that stayed brilliant Hektor from battle, terrified his people. I do not know, perhaps for this contrivance of evil and pain you will win first reward when I lash you with whip strokes” (330).  Frightened by his lashing, Hera tries to blain Poseidon. It is after this that Zeus consoles Hera in his dialogue of how, despite his commitment to aid them, the Trojan army will ultimately fall. Additionally, Zeus predicts that Hektor wil die only after killing Patroclus. Upon their summoning by Hera, Iris guides Poseidon off the battlefield while Apollo grants strength to the Trojans. Aided by powerful Apollo, the Trojans overtake Greek forces, almost succeeding in reaching their camp.

            As I watch this great war unfold before me, I find myself becoming more and more invested in the success of the Achaeans moderately so, for my priorities are ultimately estranged from mortals. It pleases me to see such strategy and commitment on the battlefield. Hera’s role most recently, however, faintly displeases me so. Although I honor the same cunning and manipulative codes, Hera’s assistance to aid the Trojans annoys me. Ultimately though, I am unconcerned. It will not be long until my skills are soon called upon, and so I wait.