The Iliad is one of the most well-known and beloved ancient epics, but its ending can be confusing to students who may not have the historical context of the Trojan War. As teachers, we have the unique opportunity to help our students understand and appreciate this epic poem. In this guide, we’ll go over the ending of The Iliad and provide resources that can be used in the classroom.
At the end of The Iliad, Achilles mourns the death of his dear friend Patroclus and finally gets his revenge by killing Hector. The Trojan War comes to a close with Hector’s funeral, and the Greeks sail home victorious. The central themes of The Iliad, such as pride and honor, are brought to light in its conclusion.
To teach our students about The Iliad’s ending, we can provide historical context about the Trojan War and the Greek gods and goddesses. We can also read and analyze key excerpts from the text, such as Achilles’ speech to Priam before Hector’s funeral. Additionally, we can incorporate art and music into the lesson plan, such as listening to a performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, which was inspired by The Iliad.
In conclusion, teaching The Iliad’s ending can be a fulfilling and engaging experience for both teachers and students. By understanding its themes and historical context, students can appreciate this epic poem and its impact on literature and culture throughout history.
