✧˖°APPLE OF DISCOURSE.𓆃

Symbolic meaning:

The "apple of discord" became a symbol not only of the beginning of the Trojan War, but also of everything that generates conflicts and enmity. It reminds us of how a seemingly insignificant cause can lead to devastating consequences when it involves pride, jealousy, and a desire for superiority. The myth of the "apple of discord" still serves as a warning about the fragility of the world and how important it is to strive for harmony and mutual understanding.

"Apple of discord" is an expression that has become a household name for the cause of quarrels, disputes and conflicts, especially between women. It comes from the ancient Greek myth about the beginning of the Trojan War, which is described in detail in Homer's poem "The Iliad".
Origin of myth:
It all began at the wedding of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons, and the sea nymph Thetis. This event was one of the most grandiose, and all the gods and goddesses of Olympus were invited to it, except for one – Eris, the goddess of discord. Offended by her disrespect, Eris decided to take revenge.
Events at the wedding

Eris, without saying a word to anyone, threw a golden apple on the banquet table, on which was engraved: "Most beautiful". This simple but insidious offering sparked an instant dispute between the three most powerful goddesses:
Hero: Goddess of marriage and family life, wife of Zeus. She claimed the apple, claiming that she was the most beautiful, as the wife of the king of the gods.
Athena: Goddess of wisdom, strategy, and just war. She believed that her beauty and intelligence made her worthy of an apple.
Aphrodite: Goddess of love, beauty and passion. She was sure that the apple belonged to her, because she was the embodiment of beauty.
The Judgment of Paris:
The goddesses could not come to an agreement, and Zeus, not wanting to interfere in this dispute, suggested that they appeal to the court of death. The Trojan prince Paris, who lived as a hermit on Mount Ida and was famous for his justice, was chosen.
Each of the goddesses tried to bribe Paris. Hera promised him power over all Asia. Athena offered him wisdom and glory in battle. Aphrodite promised him the love of the most beautiful woman in the world - Helen, the wife of the Spartan king Menelaus.
Paris, succumbing to temptation, chose Aphrodite.
Aftermath:Paris'

decision was the beginning of fateful events. He went to Sparta, where, taking advantage of the absence of Menelaus, he kidnapped Helen and took her to Troy. This act – the "theft" of his wife – served as a pretext for the ten-year Trojan War, in which many heroes on both sides died.

Trojans: Often portrayed as more peaceful and domestic, but also proud of their city and traditions. Their strength is in the unity and protection of their home.
Achaeans: They are a conglomerate of various tribes and kingdoms united by a common goal (sometimes by the personal ambitions of the leaders). Their strength lies in the valor of individual heroes and their overall military might.

Paris

Name: Paris
Age: (Estimated to be around 20-30 years old at the time of the war)
Occupation: Trojan prince, Helen's lover.
Appearance: "His gaze was radiant," "he was a handsome youth." He undoubtedly possessed an attractive appearance, since he was able to capture the heart of Helen herself. He was most likely slender, possibly with dark hair and piercing eyes. His appearance must have conveyed a certain effeminacy that distinguished him from the stern warriors.
Character:
Tendency to passion and impulsiveness: His action of kidnapping Elena suggests that he acted under the influence of strong feelings, without thinking about the consequences.
Ignorance of warfare (relative): In the Iliad, he often avoids direct combat, preferring arrows or feints. His fighting skills are no match for those of Hector or Achilles.
Self-confidence (sometimes unfounded): Even when in a dangerous situation, he could show some bravado.
Love and devotion (to Elena): Despite everything, he was sincerely attached to Elena, although this attachment led to disaster.
Indecisiveness: Sometimes his actions seem to be dictated by momentary desire rather than a well-thought-out plan.

Profile: Cassandra

Name: Cassandra

Age: It's difficult to determine exactly, but she was a young woman whose life was blighted by a curse. Likely the same age or slightly younger than her brothers (like Hector).

Origin: Daughter of King Priam of Troy and Queen Hecuba. Princess.

Appearance: She possessed a beauty that could have attracted the gods (and did attract Apollo). Perhaps her appearance bore the imprint of her tragic fate—her eyes could have revealed sadness, anxiety, a silent cry. Her hair was probably dark, like most Trojans, perhaps long and well-groomed, but could also appear disheveled from emotion. Her clothing was royal, but perhaps not as bright and lush as that of other princesses, more likely reflecting her inner state.

Character:

Insightful and knowledgeable: Her intelligence and ability to see the future made her unique.

Sad and despairing: The impossibility of changing what had been predetermined, the inability to convey the truth to her loved ones – all this plunged her into deep grief.

Persistent (in trying to warn): Despite being constantly ignored, she continued to try to warn her family about the impending disaster.

Proud (princess): Despite her tragedy, she remained the king's daughter.

Occupation: Princess of Troy, seer.

Key skills:

Prophecy (gift/curse): The ability to see the future.

Lack of Persuasion: The main "skill" that comes from the curse is that her words are not taken seriously.

Priam

Name: Priam
Age: (Very old, over 70 years old)
Occupation: King of Troy.
Appearance: "Elder", "noble". His image is the image of a wise ruler over the years. He was probably hunched over from the burden of years and sorrow, but dignity and wisdom were still visible in his eyes. His voice was probably weak, but full of dignity.
Personality:
Wisdom and calmness: Despite what was happening, he tried to keep his sanity and give reasonable advice.
Love for children: He grieved for his sons, especially for Hector. His request to Achilles to give his son's body for burial is one of the most touching moments of the poem.
Burden of government: Responsible for his people, but can no longer actively influence the course of the war.
Humility (before fate): Accepted the inevitable, even when it was hard.
Hector

Name: Hector
Age: (Probably 30-40 years old)
Occupation: The eldest son of King Priam, heir to the throne, the greatest warrior of Troy.
Appearance: "Mighty", "shining with a helmet". His image is the personification of an ideal warrior. Most likely, he was broad-shouldered, muscular, with a stern but noble face. His gaze expressed determination and a sense of duty. He wore heavy armor, often mentioned in the poem.
Character:
Duty and Responsibility: His main concern was the defense of Troy and his people. He fought not out of a thirst for glory, but out of a sense of duty to his homeland and family.
Nobility and Honor: Even in the heat of battle, he showed respect for his opponents (such as Achilles before their final battle).
Love for his family: Despite his stern appearance, he was a gentle husband to Andromache and a loving father to little Astyanax, which is vividly shown in the touching farewell scene.
Courage and bravery: He was not afraid to go into battle even against the most powerful opponents.
Tragic Figure: Aware of the doom of Troy, but continued to fight to the end.

Glaucas and Sarpedon

Name: Glaucas (Trojan warrior) and Sarpedon (Lycian leader, ally of Troy)
Age: (Warriors, in the prime of life)
Occupation: Allies of Troy, brave warriors.
Appearance: Described as valiant warriors whose appearance inspires respect. Sarpedon, as the son of Zeus, could have a special article and power.
Personality:
Loyalty and Valor: Both are staunch allies of Troy, fighting alongside the Trojans.
Thirst for Glory: Like many heroes, they strive for military glory.
Tragic fate: Both die in battle, demonstrating that war spares no one, not even the sons of the gods. The death of Sarpedon, lamented even by Zeus, is one of the most dramatic moments of the Iliad.
Aeneas

Name: Aeneas
Age: (About 20-30 years old)
Occupation: Trojan prince, son of the goddess Aphrodite and mortal Anchises.
Appearance: "of divine appearance", "chosen by the gods". As the son of Aphrodite, Aeneas must have possessed outstanding beauty and nobility. His appearance was probably regal, but it had both strength and fortitude. He is one of the few Trojans who are destined to survive and continue the race, so there must be hope in his appearance.
Personality:
Valor and courage: Despite his young age, he is one of the bravest Trojan warriors, second only to Hector.
Respect for the gods: As the son of a goddess, he has a deep respect for the Olympians and often receives help from them.
Sense of duty: Is aware of his responsibility to Troy and his family.
Resilience and perseverance: Even after the fall of Troy, he does not give up, but continues to fight for the survival of his people.
Future founder: According to Roman mythology, it was Aeneas who would become the progenitor of the Romans, which gives his image a special significance.

Ares (God of War, son of Zeus)

Reasons for support: Ares is the god of war, and he enjoyed the process of fighting. Troy, being besieged, gave him an opportunity to quench his thirst for battle. Sometimes his sympathies could change, but in general he often supported the Trojans.
Interference: Ares often appeared on the battlefield, instilling morale and fury in his warriors. However, he was also repeatedly wounded by the Achaeans (Diomedes and Athena), which showed that even the gods are not always omnipotent against mortal heroes.
Aphrodite (Goddess of Love and Beauty)

Reasons for support: Aphrodite was one of the goddesses whose beauty Paris recognized as supreme, handing her a golden apple. In gratitude, she promised him the most beautiful woman in the world, Helena, which was the direct cause of the war.
Interference: Aphrodite was not an outstanding warrior, but her intervention was significant. She saved Paris from the battle when he was almost killed by Menelaus, and provided assistance to other Trojans. Her role was more to do with protecting her pets and promoting their survival.
Artemis (Goddess of the Hunt, Wildlife, and the Moon, sister of Apollo)

Reasons for support: As the sister of Apollo and the daughter of Zeus, Artemis often shared his sympathies. She was also associated with the Trojan royal family.
Interference: Her intervention was not as direct as Apollo's, but she also supported the Trojans by showing her hostility to the Achaeans.
Apollo (God of Light, Music, Arts and Prophecy)

Reasons for support: Apollo was a close patron of Troy, as he was credited with the construction of its mighty walls (along with Poseidon, who, however, opposed Troy in the war). He also had a special relationship with the Trojan king Priam.
Interference: Apollo actively intervened in the course of battles. He sent pestilence to the Achaeans, unleashed his wrath on their army, inspired the Trojan warriors, and also helped Hector and other heroes. He was the one who struck Patroclus with an arrow, which led to his death.

Location:

Mount Pelion (Thessaly, Greece): It was here, on the slopes of Mount Pelion, that the magnificent wedding of Peleus, a mortal hero, and the sea nymph Thetis took place.

Essence of the event:

Goddess of discord Eris: All the gods of Olympus were invited to the wedding, except for the goddess of discord Eris. Offended by such neglect, she decided to take revenge.
Golden Apple: Eris tossed a golden apple on the banquet table with the inscription: "Most Beautiful" (or "Most Beautiful of Goddesses").
Dispute of three goddesses: Three powerful goddesses - Hera (wife of Zeus), Athena (goddess of wisdom) and Aphrodite (goddess of love) - immediately claimed their rights to the apple, each believing herself to be the most beautiful.
Judgment of Paris: Enraged, Zeus, not wanting to make such a difficult decision, entrusted this matter to Paris, the son of the Trojan king Priam. Paris at that time lived as a shepherd in the mountains, not knowing about his royal origin.
Bribing Paris: Each of the goddesses tried to bribe Paris:
Hera promised him power over all of Europe and Asia.
Athena offered wisdom and victories in battles.
Aphrodite promised the love of the most beautiful woman in the world - Helen, the wife of the Spartan king Menelaus.
Paris' decision: Paris, succumbing to Aphrodite's promise, gave the apple to her.
Aftermath:

This decision by Paris was the direct cause of the Trojan War. Later, arriving in Sparta, Paris, with the help of Aphrodite, kidnapped Helen, which served as a pretext for the Achaeans to start a ten-year war against Troy.

Thus, the "apple of discord" is not just a mythical object, but a symbol of the beginning of all the troubles and destruction associated with the Trojan War.

Hermes (Messenger of the Gods)

Reasons for support: Hermes, as a messenger, is usually neutral, but in the Iliad he acts in the interests of Zeus and often helps the Achaeans by carrying out their orders or guiding them.
Interference: Although his intervention is not as dramatic as that of the other gods, he carried out various errands related to transmitting messages and helping Achaean heroes.
Hephaestus (God of fire and blacksmithing)

Reasons for support: Hephaestus, although rarely active, indirectly helped the Achaeans. His craftsmanship made it possible to create perfect weapons and armor.
Interference: He forged new armor for Achilles after his old ones were lost, and this weapon proved to be so advanced that it gave its wielder a huge advantage.
Athena (Goddess of Wisdom and War)

Reasons for Support: Like Hera, Athena resented Paris for giving the golden apple of contention to Aphrodite rather than her. She also valued Greek culture and saw Troy as a hostile force.
Interference: Athena was one of the most active gods on the side of the Achaeans. She inspired warriors, gave them strength, guided their spears, and often appeared before them in the guise of wise mentors or brave warriors. She also repeatedly saved her pets from death.
Poseidon (God of the Seas)

Reasons for Support: Poseidon was indebted to Laomedon (Priam's father) for having once built the walls of Troy. When Laomeddon did not pay him the promised reward, Poseidon held a grudge against the city.
Intervention: He often appeared to the Achaeans in mortal form, inspiring them to battle, and gave them great help in directing the course of battles.

Athena (Goddess of Wisdom and War)

Reasons for Support: Like Hera, Athena resented Paris for giving the golden apple of contention to Aphrodite rather than her. She also valued Greek culture and saw Troy as a hostile force.
Interference: Athena was one of the most active gods on the side of the Achaeans. She inspired warriors, gave them strength, guided their spears, and often appeared before them in the guise of wise mentors or brave warriors. She also repeatedly saved her pets from death.
Hera (Wife of Zeus)

Reasons for support: Hera was a long-time opponent of Troy and, in particular, the house of the Trojan kings, due to the fact that Paris did not recognize her as the most beautiful at the trial of Paris. She was also resentful of Zeus for his many infidelities, often involving Trojan women.
Interference: Hera actively incited the Achaeans to war, persuaded Zeus not to interfere in battles (although she sometimes failed to do so), and even participated directly in battles by dressing in luxurious robes and deceiving Zeus to distract his attention.

Odysseus

Name: Odysseus
Age: (About 30-40 years old)
Occupation: King of Ithaca, known for his intelligence and cunning.
Appearance: In the Iliad, his appearance is described less vividly than that of strong warriors. Most likely, he wasn't the strongest or tallest, but his eyes must have exuded a sharp mind and insight. His gaze would be attentive, often thoughtful. Perhaps he had disheveled hair and signs of fatigue from long hikes.
Personality:
Wit and cunning: His main weapon is intelligence. He masterfully comes up with plans and finds a way out of the most difficult situations.
Prudence and patience: Unlike impulsive heroes, he acts deliberately and knows how to wait.
Restraint: Rarely shows strong emotions, preferring to analyze and calculate.
Oratory: Has the gift of persuasion, knows how to speak in such a way as to win people over to his side.
Devotion (to his people and home): His long journey home after the war is a testament to his strong attachment to his land and family.
Idomeneo

Name: Idomeneo
Age: (Experienced warrior, probably 40-50 years old)
Occupation: King of Crete, a brave and experienced warrior.
Appearance: "King of the Cretans", "God-like". Idomeneo should look like an experienced, battle-hardened warrior. Imagine him as a middle-aged man, with a strong build, perhaps with gray hair, but with a glowing gaze. His face was probably stern, reflecting the burden of war and loss. He was most likely dressed in reliable armor and carried weapons appropriate to his status.
Personality:
Bravery and Valor: One of the bravest Achaean warriors, who is not afraid to engage in battles with the most dangerous opponents.
Devotion to the Common Cause: He does not shrink from adversity and remains true to his oath to fight for the honor of the Achaeans.
Determination: In battle, he acts decisively and persistently.
Sense of duty: Aware of his responsibility to his people and to Agamemnon.
Wisdom (accumulated by experience): Despite his belligerence, he probably possesses wisdom.

Patroclus

Name: Patroclus
Age: (About the same age as Achilles, about 20-25 years old)
Occupation: Close friend and collaborator of Achilles.
Appearance: "dear", "brother". In the Iliad, Patroclus is not described as an outstanding warrior in terms of physical strength, but his image radiates kindness, devotion and some gentleness. You can imagine him as a young man of slender build, with a kind, sincere face. His eyes were probably full of tenderness and care, especially towards Achilles. He most likely did not wear as heavy armor as other warriors, preferring lighter armor.
Character:
Devotion and loyalty: Patroclus is, first of all, a symbol of loyal friendship. His devotion to Achilles is boundless, and he is willing to go to any lengths to support his friend.
Kindness and Compassion: He feels sorry for the suffering of the Achaean army and persuades Achilles to return to the battle to help his comrades.
Courage (for a friend): Taking the armor of Achilles, he shows incredible courage, wanting to give the army confidence and strike fear into the hearts of the Trojans.
Tragic Sacrifice: His death becomes a turning point in the poem, awakening Achilles' violent anger and leading to his eventual return to battle. His death is one of the most emotional and sorrowful events of the Iliad.
Philoctetes

Name: Philoctetes
Age: (Middle aged, but with a tragic history)
Occupation: Famous archer, one of the leaders of the Achaean army.
Appearance: (Not described in detail, but can be imagined as a hardened warrior, possibly with traces of an old wound).
Personality:
Archer Skill: Known for his unrivaled archery skills.
Tragic figure: Left by the Achaeans on the island of Lemnos due to a terrible wound (snake bite) that would not heal. His return to the battlefield was conditioned by the prophecy that without him, Troy would not be taken.
Bitterness and resentment: He felt a strong resentment towards those who left him, but in the end he still agreed to participate in the war.

Nestor

Name: Nestor
Age: (Very old, over 80-90 years old)
Occupation: King of Pylos, wise adviser to the Achaeans.
Appearance: "gray-haired", "two-knee". His image is that of an old man whose body is no longer so strong, but whose mind is sharp and wise. You can imagine him with silver hair and beard, with a face dotted with wrinkles, but with clear, wise eyes. His voice was probably calm and authoritative, even if he spoke for a long time.
Personality:
Wisdom and experience: As the oldest of the Achaean leaders, he has vast experience and is a valuable advisor. His speeches are often filled with wise instructions and stories about the past.
Peacemaker: Tries to smooth over conflicts between chieftains, especially between Achilles and Agamemnon.
Memory and History: He is the guardian of the past, knowing many battles and customs.
Symbol of continuity: Represents the connection between the past and the present, between the heroic age and later times.
Diomedes

Name: Diomedes
Age: (About 25-35 years old)
Occupation: King of Argos, one of the most courageous and skillful warriors.
Appearance: "Brave", "fleet-footed". Diomedes is the embodiment of military valor and energy. You can imagine him as a young but already experienced warrior, with quick, penetrating eyes and a strong physique. He was probably tireless in battle, always ready to attack. In the Iliad, he is often mentioned as someone who is able to wound even the gods, which speaks of his not only physical strength, but also some special, almost divine support.
Personality:
Intrepid and courageous: One of the bravest warriors who is not afraid to challenge even powerful opponents, including the gods (Aphrodite and Ares).
Prudence and prudence (compared to Achilles): Although he is belligerent, Diomedes acts more deliberate than the hot-tempered Achilles.
Loyalty to Agamemnon: Loyal to a military leader, he is always ready to fight under his command.
Athena's Help: The goddess Athena often supports him, guiding his actions and granting him power.

Menelaus

Name: Menelaus
Age: (Close to Agamemnon, about 40-50 years old)
Occupation: King of Sparta, husband of Helen, brother of Agamemnon.
Appearance: "Red-bearded", "fleet-footed". His appearance probably reflected his military character. You can imagine him as a middle-aged man, with thick red hair and a beard (which was typical of the Spartans). He was most likely physically strong, but perhaps not as impressive as Ajax or Achilles. His gaze could be penetrating, but sometimes full of bitterness or anger.
Personality:
A sense of duty and revenge: The main motive for his participation in the war is the desire to return his wife Elena and restore his honor. This passion determines his actions.
Justice (from his point of view): He considers his anger and desire for revenge to be just.
Courage and determination: In battle, he proves himself to be a brave warrior, ready to fight for his ideals.
Restraint (compared to his brother): Although he is passionate, he seems to be more inclined to judgment than his brother Agamemnon.
Man of Duty: Believes in the importance of vows and commitments, as evidenced by his willingness to fight Paris one-on-one.

Achilles

Name: Achilles
Age: (Young, about 20-25 years old)
Occupation: The greatest warrior of the Achaeans, son of Peleus and Thetis.
Appearance: "Son of Thetis", "fleet-footed". Achilles' appearance must be striking - the embodiment of physical strength and youthful beauty. He was probably tall, with powerful muscles, blond hair (as heroes were often portrayed) and a piercing, almost divine look. His body was almost invulnerable except for his heel.
Personality:
Anger and rage: His anger is one of the main driving forces of the Iliad. He easily loses his temper when he feels injustice or disrespect.
Pride and ambition: Strives for fame and recognition, does not tolerate when his honor is hurt.
Devotion (to friends): His devotion to his friend Patroclus, for whom he is ready to do anything, is especially pronounced.
Harsh Justice: Despite his short temper, he values justice and can be noble (such as giving Hector's body to Priam).
A sense of loss: After Patroclus' death, his rage is replaced by deep sorrow.
Divine: There is something unearthly about him, he is a demigod, and his actions sometimes go beyond the human.

Ajax Telamonides (Great Ajax)

Name: Ajax Telamonides (Great Ajax)
Age: (Probably older than Achilles, but younger than Agamemnon, about 30-40 years old)
Occupation: King of Salamis, one of the strongest and most valiant warriors of the Achaean army.
Appearance: "Fortress of the Achaeans", "giant family". His appearance should be impressive, embodying physical strength and fortitude. Imagine a tall, broad-shouldered warrior with massive muscles, protected by heavy armor. His face was probably stern, with a determined look that reflected his indomitable spirit. Perhaps he had short-cropped hair and rough features. His shield, made of seven layers of ox skin, was so large that it could serve as a shelter for an entire squad.
Character:
Unsurpassed courage and strength: Ajax is the embodiment of physical strength and fearlessness. He fights in the front ranks, fearing no one, except, perhaps, Achilles.
Devotion and Fortitude: He is unfailingly faithful to his military duty and his comrades. His steadfastness in battle borders on the incredible.
Simplicity and directness: Unlike the cunning Odysseus, Ajax acts in a straightforward manner, relying on his strength and courage. His speech is usually straightforward and devoid of frills.
Sense of Honor: Highly values military honor, but sometimes his straightforwardness can border on stubbornness.
Tragic fate: His rivalry with Odysseus for the armor of Achilles, which ended in his suicide, shows how even the greatest hero can fall victim to envy and despair.

Agamemnon

Name: Agamemnon
Age: (Older than Achilles, probably 40-50 years old)
Occupation: King of Mycenae, supreme leader of the Achaean army.
Appearance: "King of Kings", "Mighty". He had to look like a majestic ruler - tall, with an imposing figure, perhaps with a beard. His face was supposed to reflect the burden of power and responsibility for a huge army. He is dressed in expensive clothes and royal regalia.
Personality:
Authority and pride: He is used to commanding and expects unquestioning obedience. His pride often leads to conflicts (for example, with Achilles).
Short-sightedness and self-confidence: Sometimes makes hasty and rash decisions, which harms the entire army.
Sense of duty: He considers it his duty to lead the army to victory, but his methods are not always fair.
Desire for glory and power: Despite the formal purpose of the war, he also seeks personal gain and recognition.
Experience and leadership: Despite his flaws, he is an experienced commander and is able to command a huge army.