admirable traits. Perhaps though, the best test of how greata leader truly is, can be found when looking at the length to which he will accompany or defend those he is responsible for. Medals are awarded to generals who lead their men into battle, and show utmost courage in defending and fighting along side his men. Even sea captains have a duty to their ship, as they are to be the last ones off in the situation that the ship might sink. Leaders also usually have a respectable amount of power, and with that can come selfish behavior. It has not been unheard of in our world today to seeleaders cast out his fellow countrymen to other lands, despite the impoverished situations they may find themselves in. Neither is it uncommon for leaders to abandon his men whenthe situation becomes too uncomfortable or dangerous. Perhaps these men could providebetter guidance to those they represent if they were to take a note from The Iliad. When King Agamemnon sensed a grismal fate for his Acheans, his main concern was for the menof his army and his countrymen. Naturally, he did have some sense of concern for his own well being, however it was outshined by his anguish over the fate many of his men mightencounter on the battle field. The Iliad gives a beautiful account of how Agamemnon Page 6must have truly felt concerning his loyal servants: “Now as he scanned across the Trojanplain, Agamemnon marveled in horror at these fires, a thousand fired blazing against the walls of Troy, and the shrill of pipes and flutes and low roar of men.” (Virtual Iliad). Presuming all leaders we see today could be so brave and noble, they might find many more men willing to be their servants or soldiers. As it stand, modern day Agamemnonsare few and far between. Surely however, what The Iliad has to say about this matter will not fall on deaf ears, but rather be heard by men who could gain from this important lesson.The centuries that have past...
