s had a dream in which Hector spoke to him, telling him that the city has been infiltrated. Climbing to his roof, Aeneas saw Troy in flames, and fighting everywhere. Aeneas immediately prepares himself for battle. Insane, I seize my weapons. Theres no sense in weapons, yet my spirit burns to gather a band for battle, to rush out against the citadel with my companions. (II, 428 431). Aeneas words show a natural passion for leadership in order to defend the city and his companions. But Aeneas leadership is not limited to times of warfare. Once Aeneas had escaped to safety it becomes clear that the people of Troy also recognized his leadership qualities. They look to Aeneas for strength and for guidance, putting their lives in his hands willing to be lead with blind devotion. Here I find, to my surprise, new comrades come together, vast numbers, men and women, joined for exile, with courage and with riches they are ready for any lands across the seas where I may lead them.(II, 1072-1078) With such open devotion from the people of Troy, Virgil is illustrating the importance of Aeneas. Virgil also develops the readers interest in his character of Aeneas, by showing the mortal side of the valiant leader. In order to instill confidence in his followers Aeneas must maintain coolness, showing no fear. What makes his character more interesting is that Virgil reveals to the reader that Aeneas does doubt himself, that he is in fact weary of his future despite what the gods have told him. These are his words; though sick with heavy cares, he counterfeits hope in his face; his pain is held within, hidden.(I, 290-292) Though quite effective, the humanistic quality of leadership is not the only stratagem that Virgil uses to give Aeneas the quality of an interesting character.The next tactic that Virgil uses to create an interesting character is by revealing Aeneas' emotional strength as he is forced to disregard his love and leave Dido beh...
