CliffsNotes on

The Iliad

Search this CliffsNote

Poem Summary

Homer Biography

Life and Background
Background of the Iliad

About the Iliad

Introduction to the Poem
The Iliad begins: The Judgement of Paris
After the Iliad: The fall of Troy

Summary and Analysis by Book

Book I
Book II
Book III
Book IV
Book V
Book VI
Book VII
Book VIII
Book IX
Book X
Book XI
Books XII–XV
Book XVI
Book XVII
Book XVIII
Book XIX
Book XX
Book XXI
Book XXII
Book XXIII
Book XXIV

Character List

Character Map

Character Analysis

Achilles
Patroklos
Agamemnon
Odysseus
Nestor
Hektor
Priam

Critical Essays

The Hero and Homeric Culture
Theme I: Anger, Strife, Alienation, and Reconciliation
Theme II: The Individual and Society

Study and Homework Help

Full Glossary for the Iliad
Quiz
Essay Questions
Practice Projects

Cite this Literature Note

CliffsNotes To Go Sweepstakes -- Enter Now to Win an iPod touch Loaded with Cliffs Study Apps

How hot is Levi Johnston?

Sizzlin'!
Not bad. I've seen better.
He's taking the quick fame thing way too far.

View Results

Summary and Analysis by Book

Book XI

bastard not a pejorative term for an illegitimate child but more of a description. Bastard children were acknowledged and honored, although they were not considered royalty.

lion lions and other large beasts of prey were common in ancient Greece and Asia Minor.

triple-flanged a flange is a ridge used for guiding a projectile. The Greek arrows have three edges or flanges.

Previous page
Next page
Resources

Tools & Resources

Ask Cliff

Read More About

CliffsNotes® To Go
Literature reviews for the iPhone™ & iPod touch® help you study anywhere, anytime.
Learn more now!
cover
Defining Twilight
Your key to acing the SAT, ACT, GED, and SSAT through Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga.
The Ultimate Learning Experience!
WATCH the film and READ the lit note for a fast way to study!
Learn more!