Recently I finished reading The Iliad, translated by Emily Wilson, and it was a phenomenal and unforgettable experience that exceeded its already hefty reputation. I loved the action, the exploration of grief, and letting myself be surprised at the various small human moments sprinkled throughout.
I was very moved and wanted to draw this scene from Book 22, which occurs right before Hector and Achilles’ confrontation—Hector has a long internal monologue, reminiscent of the rapidfire narration in some anime and manga either before or during an action scene, where he considers the possibility of trying to peacefully negotiate with the aggressively approaching Achilles. The contrast between the impending violence and the kind of intimate domestic scene briefly imagined by Hector adds to the tragic sequence of events.
According to Wilson’s notes, “chatting” comes from the word oārizō, which is “used elsewhere of lovers.” Other translations phrase the scene differently but still maintain that attitude of innocence and intimacy which I’ve tried to convey here as well.
Tomatobird Art 