The Scepter or Staff Essay -- Analysis, Odysseus

I would argue the scepter and staff are metaphors for defined authority, a representation of the rule of law and Guardianship of public weal. Furthermore, I would argue that not all sectors are made equal, nor do all bearers process and equal position of ascendancy, ability to compel obedience, or Dominion. For instance Agamemnon’s royal scepter represents an authority that has come down to him from Zeus through several generations of Argive kings, meaning divine right, and heritage. They are tools of distinction, imparting a special honor, and denoting superiority of character on the individual who wields it. Both the scepter and staff are embodiments of authority, approved and legitimated by the Gods. The scepter and staff bestow Godlike powers on mortals, imparting providence in men over earthly affairs. The scepter grants authority and legitimizes the carrier’s influence. The scepter or staff first appears in scroll 1 line [14], "moreover he bore in his hand the scepter of Apollo wreathed with a suppliant’s wreath.† The term â€Å"moreover† stresses a crucial aspect of the priest campaign, the scepter of Apollo. Here the scepter is a substitution for the authority of Apollo. An authority worthy of high respect, subsidizes the actions of Khryses. This authority is not a function of royal lineage, superior military or tactical excellence, but a consequence or reward for devotion. Khryses bore Apollo's scepter indicating the approval of the divine, and enduing the priest with the Gods authority. In scroll 1 line [20] the appearance of Khryses before the Danaans in scroll 1 line [20] is initially marked by their respect for the priest and his request. Most Achaeans recognized the authority that the priest wielded, and thou... ... believe the scepter or staff, as a representation of authority is very well suited to the song. These objects are referred to as imperishable, which is definitely associated with the gods. In the Iliad the manner in which the sector is used further demonstrates the divine authority implied by. This authority encompasses the ideas of honor, glory, distinction, and most importantly power. I believe that we also get to see the various ways in which one might find such authority in their hand. There is the authority passed down through generations in power, the authority due to a connection and devotion to the gods, the authority earned through military prowess, and the authority accrued through intellectual distinction. No matter the manner in which the holder of the staff or scepter has obtained to their authority the gods are the ultimate source of this authority.