I disagree with this statement. Though Hera disliked war and violence, this was only true and applicable to the Achaians whom she favored over the Trojans.
Even Thetis, the mother of Achilles, was not spared from this impartiality when Hera tried to persuade Zeus to ignore Thetis’ request to help her avenge Achilles humiliation from the hands of King Agamemnon. Zeus who has a strong bond with Thetis did not did not listen to Hera. Zeus granted Thetis’ request.
Zeus told Hera that Menelaos won the duel over Paris. Helen will be brought back to Menelaos and the Archaians will leave Troy unharmed and in peace. Zeus further added that the two cities will have a harmonious relationship. Zeus informed Hera that Aphrodite also helped and saved Paris from being killed by Menelaos during their duel. Hera did not like what she heard from Zeus. She was furious. Since she is supporting the Achaians, she disliked a peaceful and friendly end to the conflict between Trojans and Archaians. Together with Athena, they plotted trouble for
Troy.
Hera’s actions are clearly seen as vicious. She wants to see the city of Troy completely destroyed and she doesn’t care if a lot of innocent people die.
Hera’s inequality in battle was demonstrated when she and Athena intervened. When they saw that the Trojans are winning the battle over the Achaians, they staged an attack to Troy by helping Diomedes stop the raging Ares. Athena harmed Ares who went back to Olympus. Hera left the battle field contented when she saw that the fighting continues to fume between the Archaians and the Trojans.
Though Hera was described as loving, solemn, and majestic goddess, I believed that the accounts that were narrated in books 1-V displayed her vengeful and destructive nature.
Additional Comments:
This lead to Hera's vengance. Paris gave the apple to Aphrodite. Paris act enraged Hera and Athena.
Score: 10
ReplyDeleteYour analysis of the story is remarkable! Keep up the good work!
Sir Migs