Odysseus, the man of winning words, uses multiple tactics to persuade Achilles to join the Argive cause. Odysseus uses Hector in his speech to persuade Achilles to aid them in battle. “And headlong Hector, delirious with his strength, rages uncontrollably, trusting to Zeus—no fear of man or god, nothing—a powerful rabid frenzy has him in its grip!”(9.286-289) Achilles prior to this war was seen as Hector’s equal. Both are the best fighters in their nation. Odysseus brings up Hector as a man who is unstoppable, unless someone who is his equal steps up. He hints at Achilles that his honor is greatly increased because of the threat Hector imposes currently. This is very persuasive because it portrays the need for Achilles, and it describes how …show more content…
“Fail us now? What a grief it will be to you through all the years to come. No remedy, no way to cure the damage once it’s done. Come while there’s still time, think hard: how can you fight off the Argives fatal day?” (9.301-305) When Achilles waits and does not fight, he continues to gain honor. His value and need increases and his honor are increasing daily. On the other hand, Odysseus brings up a very good point. He talks about the possibility of losing everything if Achilles waits too long. It might be too late for Achilles to save everyone and gain his honor. The urgency that Odysseus tells Achilles is another method of persuasion. Lastly, an alternative reason to why Achilles should join the war effort is given by Odysseus. “But if you hate the son of Atreus all the more, him and his trove of gifts, at least take pity on all our united forces mauled in battle here--- they will honor you, honor you like a god.”(9.364-367) Odysseus understands that Achilles does not want to fight under Agamemnon. He also understands that he doesn’t want to give in to Agamemnon’s gifts and his orders. With this in mind, Odysseus offers an alternative way to accept the offer of Agamemnon,