Question

1. a homeric/epic simile is an extended simile in which an event of epic proportions is compared to something from everyday life that would be familiar to the audience.

a. re-read the description in book 22 of the duel between achilles and hector, and identify all the homeric/epic similes homer uses to describe their final clash.

Explanation:

Homeric similes in Book 22 of The Iliad for the Achilles-Hector duel draw on familiar, everyday (ancient Greek) life to frame the epic clash. The key similes are:

1. Achilles charging Hector is compared to a hawk, a swift, predatory bird familiar to ancient audiences, diving down on a trembling dove.
2. When Hector stands his ground, he is likened to a shepherd who stands firm against a lion, a common pastoral/agricultural reference for the audience.
3. As Achilles' spear misses Hector and hits the ground, it is compared to a ship's mast toppling, a relatable image for a society dependent on sea travel.
4. When Achilles finally strikes Hector, the impact of his spear is compared to a blacksmith plunging a red-hot axe into cold water, a familiar craft/everyday labor image.

Answer:

1. Achilles charging Hector: compared to a hawk diving on a dove.
2. Hector standing against Achilles: compared to a shepherd facing a lion.
3. Achilles' missed spear: compared to a toppling ship mast.
4. Achilles' fatal strike on Hector: compared to a blacksmith plunging hot metal into cold water.