Effects Of Ajax In The Iliad

I am not a soldier. I cannot begin to imagine how terrible coming come from the theater of war is. Today, we have a better understanding of the psychological effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It would probably be helpful for soldiers suffering from this condition to see through works of art that they are not alone. Early in Ajax Athena describes to Odysseus how the great warrior Ajax was reduced to a frenzied killer. Odysseus asks, “And imagined he was killing Greeks? (page 6, Ajax)” To a modern reader, Ajax appears to be suffering from PTSD. Although a modern soldier cannot rely on Athena using her magic to prevent the soldiers from going on a rampage, however, it would probably be reassuring to know that other people sometimes are driven into a frenzy. Ajax's struggle continues until his suicide. Before he falls on his own dagger, he says, “Well, I've done my part. (page 31, Ajax)” The supplemental reading describes that veterans do not feel like they fit into a community. It appears as though Ajax had a similar feeling, having completed his duty as a solider. However, we quickly turn to see how his
For much of the story we follow Achilleus struggle to find himself. He losses the love of his life to Agamemnon, sinks into a depression and removes himself from battle. He clearly lost his self-worth and describes himself, “...as if [he] were some dishonored vagabond. (p233, line 648)” He soon is faced with his own mortality – live a normal life, or die a glorious death. Although some of these events, such as the forceful taking of Briseus, do not directly translate to modern day, the emotions and concepts do. This text may be useful for someone who is facing depression or terminal illness. Achilleus would be a relatable character in this situation and can offer hope. Achilleus does not win back his love, which is often the case after you lose someone. Yet he emerges from his depression a powerful and proud