A long Look Back at My Time in Troy

                As far as I am concerned, this will end my time in Troy. The war is close to over and the fall of the city is inevitable. I fought alongside the Trojans from the beginning of this long war and now with the death of my precious Hektor, there isn’t much use. My time in Troy has been interesting. I watched man struggle with fighting in a war started by a marital dispute. I watched heroes and champions fight to the death. I watched my fellow Gods and Goddesses get so entangled in this mortal war that they turned against each other. This war tore apart the fabrics of a world that we once knew and paved a way for a different one. Now we enter a time where heroes are fading and the will of the Gods are more predominant than ever, not that there’s anything wrong with that. If this war between meager mortals stands to show anything it is that their actions are insignificant. Everything is left up to the Gods and fate. We were all so instrumental in this war and helping out whichever side we desired. We all have our reasons. Looking back this whole war started before most of these warriors and great heroes were even born and it seems like Zeus started it all.

                Zeus held that banquet for Peleus and Thetis, as he was instrumental in their engagement in fear of Thetis’ son being more powerful than the father and thus had potential to overtake Zeus himself. And then Zeus didn’t invite everyone so Eris was upset and threw the golden apple into the party. Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite fought over it. Zeus took the apple to Paris for him to judge who was fairest. Paris picked Aphrodite, who promised him the most beautiful woman, Helen. Paris kidnaps Helen, and BAM 10 year Trojan War.

                Saying that the will of Zeus was going to be accomplished was an understatement. It seems to me, Apollo God of truth and prophecy, that Zeus planned this back before introducing Peleus to Thetis. He knew that they would have a son that would be greater than Peleus, and Achilles was even more than that. Zeus, always afraid of people challenging his power and threatening his throne, needed a way to get rid of Achilles and basically rid the world of any hero like Achilles. That time needed to be over. So, this war was orchestrated. And on such a large scale that it would ensure that heroes from all over would be there, fighting, and fighting to the death. Yes, some survived, but I truly believe Zeus has something in store for them. Perhaps, after all the fighting in Troy they will have had their fill. The heroes will retire and die out. I do know that Zeus was behind all of this. And even the Gods are subject to the will of Zeus, it’s not just mortals. This world is full of hierarchies – even on Mt. Olympus.

                As I said my time in Troy is coming to an end. I will let the rest of Zeus’ plan play out. I foresee a new age coming. I think it is time to follow Aineias and watch how his destiny plays out. I do think I will stick around Troy just a little bit longer. Achilles time is coming and I am going to be there to avenge Hektor and all the Trojans who died at the hands of Achilles. 





Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=apollo+killing+achilles&espv=2&biw=1517&bih=708&site=webhp&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiKjtLdgo3QAhXnrlQKHZQtBiwQ_AUIBigB&dpr=0.9#tbm=isch&q=map+of+troy+during+the+trojan+war&imgrc=27mfzEungqOMcM%3A

And so ends the Tragedy of Hektor

                Achilles takes the body of Hektor back to the Greek camp. Now proper funeral ceremonies are held for Patroklos. If only Achilles would let the Trojans do the same for Hektor. Fantastic games are held for the ceremony. Achilles gives out fabulous prizes to the winner. The Great Greek Heroes all participate. I am furious watching this games take place at the Greek camp. The same should be happening for the Trojans so they can properly mourn the loss of Hektor. I hated the Greeks before, but now this is on a whole new level. Achilles keeps trying to destroy the body of Hektor. But I am not letting a single thing happen to his body. I protect Hektor, still in death. Thankfully Zeus is starting to see the light and determines that Achilles needs to be convinced to hand over the body. Zeus sends Thetis to talk to Achilles and Achilles agrees to ransom the body. Zeus orders Priam, king of Troy to go himself for his son’s body. He is protected on his journey by Hermes. Priam goes to Achilles and makes his case to Achilles. Achilles hears Priam and orders the body of Hektor to be cleaned and prepared to be moved. Achilles offers food to Priam and assures Priam that the Greeks will not attack for the amount of time needed for a proper funeral. Hektor is brought back to Troy and his funeral begins. He is buried on the 11^th day of the funeral. And thus, is the end of Hektor, the great defender of Troy.

Priam asking Achilles for the body of Hektor

                The funerals of Patroklos and Hektor represent the end of hero’s journey and the time they have obtained while on earth. The extensive funerals and games and prizes provide the Greeks or Trojans time to grieve. Achilles still can’t come to term with Patroklos’ death. Perhaps the death was too much of a blow to him. Or maybe he is terrified of his upcoming death. All the events that have transpired have made it so Achilles would live a short life and die here at Troy. Maybe he is wishing that he would have gone home in the beginning of this war. Regret is an unwelcome visitor. Although Achilles is still filled with anger he does turn over the body of Hektor. I think this is only because Priam came himself. Priam mentions Achilles father and what a great man he was. Achilles should act like a great man as well. He then tries to help Priam deal with his grief by giving him a feast. Grief loves company, and we see this in the tent of Achilles. Hektor is returned to Troy and receives the burial he deserves. This concludes the poem. It is only fitting as the Iliad is referred to as the Tragedy of Hektor. The poem ends with his burial. Hektor is now at peace and so is the poem. 

Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=funeral+of+hector&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=589&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMrrPKg4jQAhXH34MKHX2RAzoQ_AUICCgD#imgrc=5UJNbu_yj1jJhM%3A

Rise of Achilles and the Fall and Hektor

Achilles anger and blood lust continues to advance the Greeks. Achilles is basically all they need. He is killing everyone in his path. Achilles does manage to anger a river god, only because he is dumping so many dead Trojans into the river! The River God, Skamandros, starts attacking Achilles. Achilles thinks he is so powerful, but the power of the Gods is greater. It actually looks like Achilles will lose. But then Poseidon, Hera, and Hephaistos team up to help him. The battle with the River God is over. Now something interesting happens on Mt. Olympus. The Gods start fighting. Poseidon challenges me. He thinks I should be mad at the Trojans for enslaving Poseidon and myself ages ago. I disregard Poseidon. He isn’t even worth my time. Bringing up issues from so long ago. I just walk away. Artemis curses at me for this. But why are we even fighting! This isn’t our war. It is a war for mortals! Back on the battlefield the Trojans are losing. They call for a retreat and I distracted Achilles so they can take cover behind the great walls. Everyone takes refuge, except for Hektor. Hektor’s mind cannot be shaken now. He has decided to end this battle with Achilles now. No one can convince him otherwise to come back into the walls. Achilles strikes fear in Hektor and he runs around the walls, avoiding the fight. Athena goes down to trick Hektor into fighting. There’s nothing any of us can do now. Hektor’s fate has been weighed by Zeus, and it doesn’t look good. My poor Hektor. He faces his attacker and they prepare for battle. Hektor asks that the loser will receive proper funeral rights. Achilles refuses. His anger is too much for any proper battle etiquette. Soon our worst fear is realized. Hektor, the defender of Troy has been killed at the hands of Achilles. The city will fall.

            We have reached the climax of this tale. Achilles is on his vendetta and killing all in his path. Achilles even turns up the fighting on Mt Olympus. This entire time it has been clear that the Gods care about this war but it is just a game to them. They are immortal they will not die. Yet, as Achilles fights for the Greeks on land, the Gods start to mimic the fighting amongst themselves. Chaos is everywhere. River Gods are fighting Achilles, Water and Fire collide, Gods and Goddesses are fighting. The end has to be near. And all of this fighting, all of this disaster is caused by Achilles. He is being portrayed as more than a man. He can through the cosmos out of order. But he is just a man. And soon his time will come. He did kill Hektor. But if we look at that fight it will predict the death of Achilles. Hektor faced Patroklos, a man in Achilles armor and killed him. Hektor was then the next to die. Now we have Achilles and Hektor facing off. Both are just men wearing the armor of Achilles. Hektor perishes. Now Achilles will die next. By killing Hektor, Achilles has set his faith in stone. He will die. But the damage he has caused is damning to the Trojans. 

picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=achilles+vs+hector&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=638&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiQ96-n_YfQAhWF2YMKHeeoDHQQ_AUIBygC#tbm=isch&q=achilles+vs+hector+painting&imgrc=Kgah8m7YLZ_JsM%3A

Everyone is All In

                 Achilles finally receives his new armor and is desperate to go to battle. Focus is on the Greek camp and what they will do once Achilles states that he is ready for battle. Achilles and Agamemnon make amends and its seems that the Greek leaders are all coming together once again. I don’t really like the sight of this. It was much better for the Trojans when the Greeks were all disorganized and fighting. I’m not sure what a united front will do to this war. The Greeks apologize and Agamemnon offers Achilles all the gifts he promised him in the past. Achilles shows no interest in this. He doesn’t care about material objects; all he wants is to fight. None of the leaders are prepared for battle. They haven’t even eaten yet.  Achilles again doesn’t care; he states that he won’t eat or drink until he avenges Patroklos’ death. Achilles just sits there while the Greeks eat. Hopefully this will allow Achilles to simmer down a little before battle. Although I did see Athena and Zeus fill up Achilles stomach with nectar and ambrosia. That is the food of the Gods! Achilles shouldn’t get that. This will clearly give him an advantage. That food is not meant for them! The only thing that occurs before battle that gives me any sort of peace is Achilles horses telling Achilles his death is near. Hopefully his death comes sooner rather than later. After that premonition from the horse’s attention focuses back on Mt. Olympus. Zeus calls all the Gods and Goddesses to his attention and finally gives us all permission to help in the war. Now I can help my Trojans against the wrath of Achilles. The battle begins with all of the Gods and Goddesses helping. Achilles goes to challenge Aineias. Poseidon actually removes Aineias from the fight before I even had a chance to intervene. So he was saved, thankfully. The fight moves on and Hektor and Achilles almost meet in battle. I encouraged Hektor to wait. Their time will come. Thankfully, Hektor actually listened to me. They almost met in battle one more time but again I stepped in. I hid Hektor in smoke and moved him away from Achilles. Achilles continues killing a lot of people, but at least Hektor is safe for now.

                The war is in utter chaos now. Gods are interfering left and right. Achilles is being treated like a God by being fed nectar and ambrosia and no one can seem to stop his terror, just possibly post pone some of the inevitable deaths. Obviously any God was going to prevent the death of Aineias. He is destined to survive this war and go on to found the great city of Rome. Any God would have stopped that fight. Although that fight was stopped I’m not sure how much longer even the Gods can hold back Achilles. He is starting to seem inhuman. We know that he is fated to die but when? Once all the Trojans have been killed by his hand? Hektor is however listening to my suggestions which shows improvement. However, I believe that all the deaths of Trojans around him, friends and family, is filling him with a rage that will lead to stupid mistakes.

                For more information on Aineias click on the following link. Here you will learn about his adventures after the Trojan War and why he was destined to live through the battle with Achilles.

 http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/articles/392/the-effect-of-troys-rebirth-on-aeneass-transformation-in-the-aeneid

He's Got the Whole World on his Shield

After the death of Patroklos battle is raging on. The mortals are fighting over the body. Hektor, as is his right, takes the armor off of Patroklos for his own. So now Hektor owns Achilles armor. The Trojans have the armor but continue to press forward for the body. After much fighting the Greeks are able to hold onto the body and carry it back to the ships. Now Achilles learns of Patroklos’ death and is distraught. His cries reach Thetis in the sea and she comes to Achilles aid. They grieve together. Songs are sung by all the sea nymphs over the death of Patroklos. It is clear to Thetis and Achilles now that he must go back to battle and fight for the Greeks. I worry for the Trojans, but it brings me a little peace of mind knowing that Achilles is destined to die in battle he in Troy. In the meantime, Thetis pulls some strings up here on Mt. Olympus, again, and gets brand new armor for Achilles from Hephaistos. He obtains a huge shield with his armor and it contains images of the entire cosmos. Matches the ego of Achilles for sure. Back in Troy Hektor again is refusing to listen to the advice of his peers. He wants Hektor to stay on defense. Hektor ignores this and pushes forward. Hopefully his determination will ensure success. Otherwise I will just have to step in and help my precious Trojans.

                This is a turning point in this war. It marks the point where Achilles has finally decided to come back to war. Thetis and Achilles have a big crying session together and it appears that it is over the death of Patroklos. However, it could be extreme grief knowing that this death ensures that Achilles will die young and here at Troy. Thetis now knows that her son will die soon. The actual death of Patroklos mirrors the death of Achilles. He was wearing Achilles armor, and was killed by Hektor and Apollo. It stands to foreshadow the death of Achilles and that he will die at the hands of someone like Hektor and with the Gods help. Achilles also received some help from the Gods as well. His armor was crafted by the Gods and contains images of everything in the world. This symbolizes how at this moment in time, Achilles is basically the center of the World. He is holding the whole world on his shield and now all the focus of this war will be on Achilles and his actions. We are at the Climax of this war and soon the outcome of this war will be known to all.

Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=achilles+shield+iliad&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=638&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwji5uSDp-PPAhXJYyYKHb9iBOUQ_AUIBigB#imgrc=kjKgVJZCIJuFvM%3A

It Takes Three

The Death of Patroklos 

                Finally, Zeus awakes from Hera’s trickery. Poseidon is caught for meddling with the Greeks. It was clear he was helping, otherwise the Greeks wouldn’t have been winning. A lot of tensions are beginning to rise further up here on Mt. Olympus. Zeus is angry with Hera and Poseidon for their deception, Ares is devastated and angry at the death of his son on the battlefield, and Athena is trying to calm down Ares and to not have anyone cross Zeus again. Hera came over to me and asked myself and Iris to go meet Zeus on Ida. First Zeus lets me go and help Hektor on the battlefield. He was partially knocked out. I helped him, disguised as a Trojan hero and told him to return to battle and that a path would be cleared for him by the Gods. Hektor marches back into battle with renewed confidence. The Greeks were trying to stand tall but I shook fear into their hearts and that shook them to the core and they ran and hid. With this advantage the Trojans push onward towards the Greek ships. I even helped tear down the rest of the Greek wall so more and more Trojans can push through. Hektor is close enough to the ships and burns the first one! A true victory for the Trojans. The Greeks are trying to fight back but Hektor is pushing them hard. There is so much joy in my heart right now. Watching the Trojans attack the Greeks, The Greek heroes crying and going back to Achilles for help, clearly their last resort. Even with the burning of the ships Achilles still won’t help. The only help I see coming is Patroklos in Achilles armor. I hear Achilles pray to Zeus for success for Patroklos and for him to return home safe. I wonder what Zeus will do with that? The battle continues. The Trojans get pushed back, they think it is really Achilles! Those fools! Patroklos then takes on Sarpedon, Zeus’ son. Sarpedon perishes. Things are not looking to me. The Trojans are praying to me to heal their wounds and of course I grant this favor. Zeus eventually allowed me to go down and retrieve Sarpedon’s body as there were continuous fights around it. I took the body to Lykia for a proper burial. But I had to also watch the battle continue. Patroklos almost broke into Troy! I stopped his momentum. This Greek forward motion needs to stop. I went down disguised, again, as a Trojan and told Hektor to keep fighting. Hektor and Patroklos meet in battle and chaos erupts. I have had it with the Greeks and I knocked off all of Patroklos’ armor. Patroklos is stabbed by a Trojan warrior and then by Hektor. Patroklos warns Hektor of his impending death through his last words. Not a great message for Hektor, but Patroklos has been removed from the picture.

                A lot is happening at this point of the war. Again there is a power struggle on Mt. Olympus. A lot of the Gods are starting to realize the impact of this war as well. Not even the Gods children are safe on this battlefield. Even Zeus lost a kid today. Seems that no one is really safe anymore from what is fated to occur in this war. It’s hard to say who is winning at this point in the war. The Trojans have burned a ship, but then were pushed back and Troy was almost broken into, but then Patroklos was killed at the hands of the Trojans. Much like power is going back and forth on Mt. Olympus by several Gods fighting to do what they want, the war keeps going back and forth between the Greeks or Trojans winning. Then we have the issue of Achilles. The ships are burning and he still won’t return to battle. What will make him return? Patroklos then basically pretends to be Achilles and it works. Everyone is scared. And in the end Patroklos is such a strong fighter that it takes three people to kill him, Including myself! A GOD! I worry now what Achilles will do with the news of his death. And if it took two men and one god to kill Patroklos, what will it take to finish off Achilles? I worry that the Trojan advancements today toward the ships may actually have led to Patroklos coming to battle, which then may have some terrible consequences later. 



Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=death+of+patroclus&espv=2&biw=1517&bih=708&nfpr=1&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiTg6yihY3QAhVH1oMKHQWxAV4Q_AUIBigB&dpr=0.9#imgrc=VYV-qUfSbmUDmM%3A

The Seduction of Zeus

                Fighting continues just outside the wall of the Greek Camps. I continue to worry about Hektor. He is rejecting all advice from his men, he isn’t even paying attention to the omens that are around him. At the moment it seems like Hektor’s stubborn determination is paying off. With the help of Sarpedon, Hektor breaks through the gates and the Trojans flood through to continue the assault on the Greeks. This advantage the Trojans has strikes up anger on Mt. Olympus. Poseidon sneaks down to Troy to help the Greeks. He disguised himself as a mortal. I can’t believe Zeus isn’t seeing this! His own brother is disobeying him. The only reason Poseidon hasn’t been caught is because he isn’t really fighting. He is just boosting moral and helping the Greeks in small ways. A lot of battles take place as things heat up on the battlefield. Things are going so well for the Trojans that Agamemnon suggests going back home, yet again! Sooner or later they will actually leave. But once again Agamemnon is talked out of leaving. Seems the other Greek Heroes are still stepping in on Agamemnon’s power. If they don’t have a united front, there is no way the Greeks will win. But Poseidon is still interfering. Now Hera is even distracting Zeus so Poseidon can really rally the Greeks. She turns to Aphrodite to help seduce Zeus. Zeus being the God he is jumps at the chance to be with Hera and even adds a cloud of smoke around them. He doesn't see a thing happening down in Troy now. And then he falls asleep! This does not bode well for the Trojans. Hektor gets wounded and the Greeks advance. Poseidon needs to get out of there and Zeus needs to wake up. Enough Love Making! 

"'Hera, there will be a time afterward when you can go there as well. But now let us go to bed and turn to lovemaking. For never before has love for any goddess or woman so melted about the heart inside me, broken it to submission, as now...'" (Book 14, p 323, Line 313-317)

                I have been sitting by watching the battle unfold as Zeus has wished; no interfering. Hera and Poseidon need to learn to do the same. What I am angered by is Aphrodite helping Hera seduce Zeus. Doesn’t she understand that by helping Hera she is helping the Greeks!? She doesn’t want the Greeks to win! It doesn’t make sense. She shouldn’t have helped Hera, now the Greeks are pressing forward and Zeus isn’t even around to put a stop to anything. Now Poseidon, his brother, seems to be calling the shots. With Hera and Poseidon’s new partnership, I don’t really know who is calling the shots on Mt. Olympus. If Poseidon hadn’t come down the Greeks would probably be turning back. I mean this is the third time Agamemnon has suggested going home. I don’t think he even wants to be here anymore. Odysseus and Diomedes probably just want to stay because Athena always encourages them to stay. Something needs to change otherwise the Fall of Troy really will be inevitable.

Picture: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d4/Carracci_-_Jupiter_et_Junon.jpeg

Another day, Another Battle

                The Greeks have fallen back to their ships. I can see their fear from all the way at the top of Mt. Olympus! The leaders of the Greek camps are scrambling to figure out what to do. The Greeks and Trojans come up with the same idea to try and infiltrate each other’s camps. It seems that the Trojans did not pick the best spy since he was captured by the Greeks and questioned. He gave up everything he knew. It was disgusting to see. And on top of all that the Greeks used his body as a dedication for Athena. It was horrible to watch. I don’t like seeing Greeks behind our walls and slaying our men, especially in honor of Athena. Oh, the things I could do to Diomedes and Odysseus with my bow and arrow. But that would just cause chaos up here on Mt. Olympus amongst us gods. I’ll save my wrath for a later date. The next day Zeus gets the fight going again. The Greeks start gaining momentum during the day. Agamemnon is not a force to be reckoned with today. Thankfully Zeus sends a message to warn Hektor to stay out of the fight until Agamemnon is injured. Surely it won’t take too long with his arrogant personality. It will catch up with him. Sure enough he gets injured and then Hektor joins the fight. The battle is intense. Greek heroes are killing a lot of Trojans; Trojan heroes are killing a lot of Greeks. A lot of people are getting wounded as well. By the end of the day the Greeks are yet again fearing defeat.

                There was not a lot of intervention in the fighting today. Instead we are starting to see big names on each side go against each other. As far as big names go, no one was really killed; several were wounded although. It seems that this is depicting the end of the war is coming but it’s not quite the time for it to end. People are getting hurt symbolizing how close death actually is. Our great heroes need to regroup and plan. With a majority of the Greek heroes returning to camp injured and losing hope I have to wonder if and when Achilles will come to their aid. I keep seeing Thetis keep an eye on Zeus. They better not have something planned for Achilles return. We still have Hektor but I think the pressure of keeping Troy safe is getting to him. At least he listened to Zeus’ advice today. I’m worried that the advantage he is continuing to have will go to his head and he will make a rash decision. 



Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=greek+camp+trojan+war&espv=2&biw=1517&bih=708&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj6o8DThI3QAhWkzIMKHXZwCSUQ_AUIBigB&dpr=0.9#imgrc=ogxuB2d0aE_CMM%3A

War is a spectator Sport

                As the Battle continues outside of Troy, the Trojans step up their game and put the Greeks in their place! Athena actually started looking worried and came down from Mt. Olympus to try and stop the Trojan force. I was not going to have any of that. Not again. I stopped her in her tracks this time and proposed a new idea. Instead of everyone fighting, let’s have another face-off. One Greek vs one Trojan. Athena agreed, finally listening to me. Hektor challenges the Greeks to a fight. Those cowards! Not one of them stood up to take on Hektor! It was a spectacular sight to see all the Greeks shaking in their armor. Not so tough now! Finally, after picking straws basically Aias steps up to the plate. Aias is a little better than expected, but I wasn’t about to let Hektor lose. I helped Hektor up after being knocked down. The fight was called to a draw after that. Zeus wouldn’t want to see either men die. These men then at least were respectful for each other and exchanged gifts. This fight did not end as badly as the last man-to-man combat between Paris and Menelaus. This fight ends all the fighting for the day. Things have settled down as each army heads back to their camps. As things quiet down on the field, tensions are running higher here on Mt. Olympus. Apparently, Poseidon is getting irritated with the Greeks and the wall they have built. Zeus assured him the wall will be destroyed once Troy falls. I’m not sure why Zeus is talking about Troy falling when he has been attacking the Greeks so harshly. Maybe it was just a lie to cool down Poseidon. After that Zeus tells us yet again to stay out of the war. I don’t know what he expects. That didn’t work the first time. Oh well, at least the scales of Zeus are in favor of the Trojans today. The Trojans are dominating. Athena and Hera are on the edge of their seat wanting to intervene. They both try to only to be stopped by Zeus. The Trojans have really pushed the Greeks back so far and even camp out on the plains so they continue the attack all the way to their ships in the morning. Well this intimidates the Greeks. Agamemnon even suggest going home! Yet again, the other Greek leaders start pushing their will over Agamemnon. They don’t want to leave. What they want is for Achilles to come back. But I’m not sure Agamemnon will ever apologize enough to get Achilles back. Both of those men are stubborn. Must like my sister Athena and her will to see the Greeks triumph. Sure enough, Achilles turns down the apology attempt. The Greeks decide to push on without him. I just think this shows how unstable the Greek army is. Always fighting amongst themselves.

                It’s hard not to notice the power struggles on Mount Olympus and down on earth. Even though we are all Gods here on Mt. Olympus, there is a hierarchy we abide by. Athena and Hera try to work around that. Hera and Athena both think they are above Zeus’ orders being his wife and his daughter. But Zeus does not care. He word is final. He is not dealing with anyone disobeying him. Zeus’ will is going to get accomplished one way or another. This power struggle is mirrored in the Greek camp as we see yet again people start questioning Agamemnon’s power and rule. Maybe he isn’t as tough as once thought. It starts to look like Agamemnon doesn’t even want to be there anymore. And why should he? This was all for his little brother, and as the Trojans keep advancing, it doesn’t seem like this long war was worth it. As the fates have placed favor in the Trojans I just hope that doesn’t run out. I’m never sure which side Zeus is playing for. Between the comments to Poseidon and how he acts on the battlefield it’s unclear which side he actually wants to win. And now Hektor is switching up his game plan. I’m afraid that with all his success his luck will run out. Hektor doesn’t usually go on the offense like this. Camping on the fields? I hope his plan works out. The only thing that I think bodes well for the Trojans is that they are mainly a united front. They follow Hektor, the people within the walls light fires to help the Trojans keep an eye on the Greeks. They stick together. The Greek camp seems to be falling apart. Between wanting to leave, trying to regain Achilles, and everyone fighting for power, the Greek army doesn’t seem to be holding it all together. Only time will tell how this will all play out. 

The Battle Thickens

                Zeus is still trying to run the show up on top of Mt. Olympus. This only causes Hera and Zeus to fight more. Zeus is the king of the Gods, and although Hera is the queen, she doesn’t quite have the power Zeus does. You can imagine how this leads to fighting. Hera wants to be in charge. But she is only the Queen. Hera and Zeus finally come to an agreement of what to do with the abrupt end to the battle between Menelaos and Paris. Of course Athena jumps into play again to help Hera get the Trojans to break the truce set in place. She is quite the meddler. This rallies the Greeks, unfortunately, and they press forward. The only glimpse of hope I see from up here is that Agamemnon is being arrogant and controlling, and it’s starting to seem like some of his other men are getting annoyed with him. Maybe one of them will over throw him? Either way, battle continues. And there is no shortage of other Gods interfering. Thankfully, some other Gods are helping out my dear Trojans as well. We can’t just let Athena save the Greeks. They don’t deserve the help. Aineias joins the scene and is a great help to the Trojans. He almost met his match with Diomedes, but Aphrodite was watching and saved him when he needed the help. Diomedes, that damned Greek, then tries to attack Aphrodite! A mortal attacking a God!? The nerve of him! Hera and Athena thought this was some kind of joke! I wonder how they would feel if mortals attacked them! Those women are still just jealous that they were not chosen to be the most beautiful woman.  I couldn’t stand what was happening. I took it upon myself to save Aineias. Diomedes should know not to pick fights with the Gods. I decided to give him a warning to never to do so again. I saved Aineias and my mother and other sister, Leto and Artemis, helped heal Aineias’ wounds. I even sent a “replacement” Aineias down to the battleground to rally the Trojans. This helped boost their energy and we pressed on. As soon as Aineias was healed I had him go back to fighting. The battle rages on. Diomedes is still using Athena’s help to see us Gods. An unfair advantage if you ask me. Athena continues to play unfair. She helps Diomedes, and he is continuing to attack the Gods. He shouldn’t mess with us. After Ares is hurt, the Gods and Goddesses sit out for a little. The Greeks start to pull ahead. The Trojans pray to my sister Athena; she ignores them completely. She is so stubborn. The Battle continues, my Trojans fighting hard, despite the lack of help from Athena.

                We’ve reached an interesting time in this war. It’s hard to see if this war is really between The Trojans and the Greeks or if it is more a war we Gods are using to fight our battles. Athena and Hera are clearly just upset at Aphrodite. They are doing everything they can to destroy the people Aphrodite loves, those being the Trojans. Hera is also using these mortals to assert her dominance and power over Zeus and the rest of the Gods. We are using these mortals to act out our fights. But what else can we do. We can’t really fight amongst ourselves. It is easier to pick sides on this war and set people against each other to fight our battles. Then not only is it fights with mortals comparing skill, but comparing wits from the Gods and who can help their fighter better. I will help the Trojans as best as I can. Maybe Agamemnon’s arrogance is a reflection of Hera and Athena’s arrogance and how they think they can out-smart the rest of us and Zeus himself. Just as Odysseus and Diomedes are starting to question Agamemnon’s power, Hera and Athena question Zeus’s. I wonder if anyone will overthrow the commander in charge.  

Battles on the Field and in the Skies

                Thanks to the misleading dream Zeus has sent to Agamemnon the Greeks prepared for battle. My brave Trojans met them on the plains in front of Troy. I watched from Mt Olympus as Hektor fought through the masses. He moved like a God. A glorious fighter indeed. His brother on the other hand was not as skilled in combat. Paris caused this war and was cocky in his skills but he didn’t have the gift like Hektor did. Trying to prove himself, Paris agreed to a single combat duel between Menelaus of Greece and himself. The outcome of this battle would determine the outcome of the war. The two of them started this war, they decided to end it, here and now. Zeus and Hera seem to stop their interfering during this battle. All the Gods interested to see how this fight will turn out. Although, as the fight plays out it seems that poor Paris is not going to win this fight. Aphrodite sweeps in and saves her precious Paris.

"He Turned and made again for his man, determined to kill him with the bronze spear. But Aphrodite caught up Paris easily, since she was divine, and wrapped him in a thick mist and set him down again in his own perfumed bedchamber." 

(Book 3, p 127, line 379-382) 

 And with that the battle ends. Aphrodite doesn’t usually interfere with the fate of battles, but anything to save the most beautiful man on earth and the one who choose her as the fairest goddess of all. At least the Trojans are not out for the count yet. Hektor should stick to the single combat duels. I know that he will not disappoint.

                After this battle Zeus called us all to a council on Mt. Olympus. Tensions were running high as we wondered if there was a way to fix this war and give Helen back to her husband. Hera and Zeus continued to butt heads. Zeus doesn’t want to see the city of Troy fall, as do I, and Hera is as vengeful as they come. She wants the Trojans to pay. Hera is entitled and stands against Zeus. Zeus does not like to be challenged, but Hera is his wife after all. Hera wants the Trojans to break the truce. So my meddling sister flies down to earth and convinces a Trojan to fire an arrow at Menelaus. And then she blocks the arrow so it doesn’t kill Menelaus! But it is enough to anger Agamemnon, like that’s difficult. And the battle continues. I saw the Trojans heading back a little. They were being timid or scared! And of what? The Trojans have more allies and more strength on their side. Agamemnon was hiding amongst his men! What kind of leader does that? Clearly the Greeks are not as strong. Without a strong leader the army will fall. That is why the Trojans are so successful with Hektor. I rallied up the Trojans and reminded them that Achilles isn’t even fighting. The Greeks have nothing going for them. Not even Achilles will fight for Agamemnon. If it wasn’t for Hera and Athena, the Trojans would have crushed the Achaians already. But no one can stop the will of the Gods. But with Zeus crushing the Greeks it seems the outcome of this war is already set!

At the Beginning of the End

      This War has dragged on for 9 years. Now we come to the beginning of the 10^th year of fighting between the Mighty Trojans and the Greeks. And all because of a woman, Helen. Looking down at the war another woman is starting to cause distress in the Greek Camps. Those foolish Greeks have taken the lovely Chrysies as a prize. Her father, Chryses; one of my priests, asked for her back. But those stubborn men in control of the Greeks did not give back her daughter. Chryses prayed to me for

help and of course I lent my aid. I unleased a Plague on the Greeks, just to show them my wrath. They should not disrespect me and those who offer their lives to my worship! I watched Agamemnon and Achilles try to figure out why my plague was wreaking havoc on their camps and how they should stop it. Finally, Agamemnon decided to turn over Chrysies and new arguments broke out between Agamemnon and Achilles over who would replace Chrysies. Oh, how man can be so easily distracted by the temptation of women. It seems that the Greek Army is held together by just a few strands, and the smallest disturbance can shake the entire army. Bodes well for my precious Trojans. The Greek force was almost up in smoke as Achilles went to attack Agamemnon. If it wasn’t for my interfering sister, Athena, Agamemnon could have been out of the picture and the war would have been mine! I mean the war would have been won for Troy! But Athena stepped in. Now Achilles is whining to his mother and asking for the hand of Zeus to interfere. Hopefully Zeus will disregard the request from Thetis, she is only a sea-nymph.

                Zeus did interfere. But it seems like he wants the Greeks to suffer! Something we have in common! The Greeks prepare for battle thinking that they will win, a fools thought in my opinion. The Greek army doesn’t even want to fight anymore! Agamemnon tried testing his men’s loyalty and told them they could leave. They all started to leave! He was furious. I found the whole situation humorous and favorable for the Trojans. Clearly the moral is not strong on the Greek side. The Greek army would have sailed away if it wasn’t for Athena and Hera stepping in. It is an interesting time up here on Mt. Olympus with Hera and Zeus helping opposite sides and my sister and I helping opposite sides. Hera is not pleased with Zeus for fooling the Greeks into thinking today is a good day to fight. I am angry at Athena for yet again stepping in. At least when I sent out my plague it was for good reason! People cannot disrespect the Gods. I will do what I can to stop the Greek force. Even if it means going head to head with Athena. She will see that I am not one to be challenged and neither will the Trojans. They muster their strength and prepare to meet the Greeks for battle. 

Works Cited: 

Picture:  

https://www.google.com/search?q=apollo+relinquishing+a+plague+on+the+greeks&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=638&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjf6JCMk7XPAhXJpB4KHYhUCWUQ_AUIBigB#tbm=isch&q=the+capturing+of+Chryses+Iliad&imgrc=lek9ORFgxvd-RM%3A 

Mighty God Apollo!

                I am the mighty God Apollo! I am the God of many things, proving my importance. I am the God of music, song, poetry, prophecy, oracles, archery, healing, plague, disease, and the protection of the young. I am the son of Zeus and the titan Leto. I am also brother to the goddess Artemis. I also consider the Goddess Athena to be my half sister. She is born of Zeus, as am I. And we have enough sibling rivalry to be considered real siblings. I typically refer to her as my sister. My family tree is complicated. But we are all Gods and Goddesses under the Rule of Zeus! I always have my bow and arrow with me, a gift from Hephaestus. I watch over man and will punish the wicked and overbearing. I am worshiped by many, but if disrespected I will wreak havoc on those who cross me. I am a God you do not want to cross.

Picture: https://www.google.com/search?q=trojan+war+map&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=638&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiO__3cnNPPAhVh9YMKHWWbA5AQ_AUIBigB#tbm=isch&q=apollo+family+tree+greek+mythology&imgrc=MunVbA8cCp_jBM%3A