... the two classic epic poems. Virgil Similar in certain aspects, the shield scenes are also distinctly different. The similarities (of the gods forging the shield and of the mothers) in the shield scene illustrates Virgil's attempt to imitate the Homeric style, while the distinct differences in the time period focused on shield demonstrate Roman values. This makes Aeneid characteristically Virgilian. One similarity ... forge arms for their sons. The same god with different names (Hephaestus in Greek and Vulcan in Rome) forged the shields of the two heroes. A second similarity, which follo...

• Word Count: 806
• Approx Pages: 3
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... (Achilles" rage and the unfortunate consequences) A formulaic style that Homer thrusts within the Iliad for character comparison is the epic simile. An epic simile, or Homeric simile, is an extended comparison beginning with "like" or "as" that continues at such length that a reader's attention can be drawn from the narrative ... along the front of the deep sea beach marched in order/ by companies to the assembly, and Rumour walked blazing among them." Within this Homeric simile, Nestor is speaking with the Achaians. Homer proceeds by comparing the swarms of angry bees to Nestor's troops,...

• Word Count: 1033
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... , both Achilles and Odysseus have a choice over the fate in some manner, by Aeneas has no choice at all and must do what the gods have decreed, whether it is an order by Venus to go to Italy, or by Mercury to leave his lover, Dido. The ... takes away the cloud from Aeneas eyes so he can see the destruction of Troy. This is similar to the situation in the Illiad where Athene shows Diomedes the gods on the battlefield. But, in the Aeneid, humans are merely agents in a divine plan, where their actions are insignificant, while it is not wholly the case ... in Homer's epic writings. The stor...

• Word Count: 906
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography