Source edition
Aristides. Vol. 2. Dindorf, Wilhelm, editor. Leipzig: Reimer, 1829.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a rhetorical persuasive speech addressed by an embassy of the Greek forces to Achilles, who has withdrawn from the Trojan War out of anger toward Agamemnon. The speaker begins by arguing that since Agamemnon has admitted his error and apologized, Achilles' persistent anger is now a dishonor that only benefits the enemy. The speech sharply points out the absurdity of ruining the entire army for the sake of a single captive woman, Briseis, and urges Achilles to accept Agamemnon's generous reconciliation offer. Furthermore, the speaker demonstrates how Achilles' current decision to withdraw contradicts his past resolve, his upbringing under Chiron, and the original purpose of the expedition. Finally, by revealing that Hector is mocking Achilles as a coward using anger as a mere excuse, the speech forcefully calls on him to honor his ancestors, cast away his pride, and return to the battlefield immediately.