Tensions In The Iliad

Throughout Book 1 of the Iliad, written by Homer, interpersonal tensions become apparent and, consequently, have broad ramifications. The clearest tension between two characters is most obviously that of Chryses and Agamemnon. Agamemnon, who has stolen Chryses’ daughter as a war prize, refuses to accept Chryses’ ransom for the return of his daughter. Agamemnon is practically insulted by Chryses’ request as Agamemnon sees Cryseis as his rightfully earned prize. Therefore, giving Chryses his daughter would be a stab at Agamemnon’s honor and glory. However, this personal argument greatly affects all the soldiers under Agamemnon’s rule. As a form of justice, Chryses prays to Apollo avenge his loss on the army. As a result of the argument between