Reasons Why Achilles Withdrew from War

The Trojan War, a legendary conflict in Greek mythology, has long captivated the imagination of scholars and historians alike. Among the numerous fascinating characters in this epic tale, one stands out in particular – Achilles, the great warrior of ancient Greece. However, despite his unmatched strength and valor, Achilles unexpectedly withdrew from the war, a decision that had far-reaching consequences for both sides. Several reasons have been proposed to explain his retreat from battle, shedding light on his complex personality and motivations.

Firstly, a pivotal influence on Achilles’ withdrawal was the death of his beloved companion, Patroclus. The tragic demise of Patroclus, at the hands of Hector, the Trojan prince, filled Achilles with overwhelming grief and vengeance. Such was the depth of their friendship that Achilles could not bear the loss of his dear friend and swore to avenge him. Therefore, in order to punish Hector and seek retribution for the death of Patroclus, Achilles removed himself from battle temporarily. In this period of seclusion, Achilles reconciled with his grief and prepared himself mentally and physically for a triumphant reentry into the war.

Another significant reason for Achilles’ withdrawal was the perceived slight inflicted upon him by the Greek commander, Agamemnon. The rift between Achilles and Agamemnon began when the latter unjustly claimed Achilles’ war prize, the maiden Briseis. This act of disrespect wounded Achilles’ pride deeply, as it stripped him of his honor and status within the Greek army. Consequently, Achilles, feeling indignant and slighted, decided to abstain from fighting and refused to help the Greeks in their battle against the Trojans. This withdrawal forced the Greeks to confront the harsh reality of their reliance on Achilles’ incomparable fighting skills and the devastating impact it had on their chances of victory.

Furthermore, Achilles’ withdrawal can be explained by his contemplation of his own mortality and the pursuit of a meaningful legacy. Throughout the Iliad, Achilles grapples with the concept of death and the fleeting nature of life. He yearns for eternal glory and the immortalization of his name. In withdrawing from battle, Achilles is engaging in a reflective quest to define his place in history. By abstaining from the war, he forces the Greeks and Trojans alike to recognize his absence and acknowledge the significance of his presence. Achilles craves being remembered not only as a formidable warrior but also as a symbol of indomitable strength and heroic individuality.

Another plausible reason for Achilles’ withdrawal is what can be termed as a strategic move. By removing himself from the conflict, Achilles places pressure on the Greeks to realize their vulnerability without him. The absence of Achilles casts doubt over their ability to succeed and serves as a wake-up call for the Greek commanders to address their grievances and make amends. Achilles, in his wisdom, understood that his temporary withdrawal would not only serve as a lesson for the Greeks who took his presence for granted but also allow them to fully appreciate the worth of his contributions to the war effort.

In conclusion, Achilles’ withdrawal from the Trojan War can be attributed to multiple factors. The loss of his dear friend, the perceived insult inflicted upon him, the contemplation of his own mortality, and the strategic maneuver all played a significant role in his decision. By delving into the complex motives behind his retreat, it becomes evident that Achilles’ actions were not merely a result of impulsiveness but a calculated move designed to exert maximum impact on both the Greeks and the Trojans. The withdrawal of this iconic warrior left an indelible mark on the narrative of the Trojan War and continues to fuel the fascination surrounding his character to this day.