"The Shield of Achilles"

Paper Summary:

This paper analyses the major themes in book 18 of "The Iliad", focusing on the images portrayed upon the Shield of Achilles. In effect, this is a brief study of the use of imagery and symbolism employed by Homer to great effect in this most interesting section of the epic.

From the Paper:

"This excerpt begins with the first phase of construction, undertaken by Hephaestus, (or Vulcan respectively) as he forges the great shield of Achilles. Homer paints the picture of the keeper of Hades, bringing to life the primary elements of the shield. There are vivid images of Hephaestus labouring away as he brings the structure of the shield together and begins to fashion 'rich designs' ( Homer, Iliad, line 6) upon the first of the five layers of the shield. These designs consist of universal themes -the planets and the stars - and are crucial for they provide a number of symbolic connections. The fact that these images are being engraved upon a surface that is circular in nature is no coincidence either."

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