The Iliad, Book 3 summary

What happens

1. Alexandrus retreats from Menelaus, accepts Hector’s rebuke, and proposes a duel to settle the conflict.
2. Iris brings Helen to the walls, where she identifies Achaean leaders for Priam and mourns her separation from home.
3. Priam joins the armies for sacrifices and binding oaths, then leaves because he cannot bear to watch his son fight.
4. Menelaus overpowers Alexandrus, but Venus breaks his helmet strap and carries him to his bedroom.
5. Helen resists Venus’s summons, obeys after a threat, reproaches Alexandrus, and joins him in bed.
6. Menelaus searches for his missing opponent, and Agamemnon declares victory and demands Helen, her wealth, and compensation.

In this book

What to notice

The armies’ shared desire for peace does not secure divine agreement. Their solemn ceremony cannot ensure that the duel settles the conflict.

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