Menelaus or Paris, who is nobler, greater and a more honorable man?
If you'd ask me, it would definitely be Menelaus. First of all, when Paris saw Menelaus, he immediately withdrew back into the their ranks. It's obviously a sign of Paris's cowardice and a clear picture of Menelaus's greatness over Paris and even if the Gods supported Paris in many ways, and they didn't even cheer for Menelaus, he still showed dominance during their duel, another clear picture of Menelaus's greatness over Paris.
Who is nobler? Menelaus is the "King of Sparta" and Paris is just a prince from Troy who abducted the "Queen of Sparta". Even though Paris didn't know that Helen is already married, the fact that he insisted in keeping her, after knowing who she was showed his greed and lust for women. Greed, to the point of starting a war just for a taste of pleasure. Traits that a noble man should not posses.
Who is a more honorable man? Without Hector, Paris would just let his people die in war, but Menelaus immediately agreed to Hector's ideas. Menelaus didn't agree because he knows his greater than Paris, but because his willing to fight till death for his love and to end the war. The war which his men where tired of.
Those who act before they think are what I consider modern day Paris. They engage into something without thinking of what will happen next. Its like making a move and you only realize its a blunder when things can't be change.
Score: 9
ReplyDeleteThe accounts given about Paris is somehow true and acceptable, though a bit strong. It should be noted that Helen is a prize from Aphrodite, a prize that's so irresistible since Helen possesses exceptional beauty. Therefore,should Paris be held totally accountable?
Anyway, you gave the topic a very good treatment/discussion. Keep up the good work!