Patriotism and Politics As Themes

Patriotism

There is frequent reference to the beloved lands of Greeks' fathers, but Hector best expresses love of country, inciting his men as they close on the Greek ships:

"So come! Fight to the ships! If any of us
should take a blow and meet his fate today
while battling to save his fatherland, let him die
and fall upon it. His family is safe,
his home untouched. The few surviving Greeks
will soon set sail and leave the shores of Troy!"
(15.494).

Politics

In the chariot race, Nestor's young son, Antilochus, overtakes Menelaus at a narrow place in the track. The Spartan king loses his nerve and falls back, never to regain his lead over the youth, who claims a mare as his prize. Menelaus is furious and haughtily challenges Antilochus to swear before the assembled Greeks that he defeated Menelaus fairly.

Antilochus shrewdly avoids that challenge, by offering Menelaus an apology, which he accepts but not without homily:

"Next time do not use guile to humble a king.
Another man might not appease me so soon,
but you have endured much, fought many times--
for me--as have your noble father and brother,
so I have relented, and now this mare--
rightfully mine--I give to you as proof
my heart is never arrogant or harsh."
(23.603).

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