Read The Iliad as if you are an archaeologist who has just discovered an ancient text which gives you a window into the ancient world. You hold this fragile treasure in your hands, and begin to read, knowing that you must suspend your modern perspective on life and reality. The work begins with a request by the writer, who calls upon the Muse of Song to begin the story: "Rage----Goddess, sing the rage of Peleus' son Achilles...." Achilles' rage is an overriding theme in the work and it tells us much about the nature of gods and men, the nature of human relationships, and the nature of Kingship and of Sacrifice. How justified is Agamemnon in his actions? How justified is Achilles in his rage? What does the exchange between Achilles and Agamemnon tell us about the nature of honor and respect in the ancient world?