I wonder what Achilles and his ilk would have made of social media and the like? Likewise, I wonder what our times would be like if we all strove for some element of meaningful kleos (or immortality) rather than the foolish and idiotic content that will see us live forever on the internet.
Excellent questions. While the means to spread 'Kleos' has expanded - the reason to do perhaps has changed (though I'm sure that scandal and gossip were also prevalent in ancient times)
It reminds me of children and teenagers in Mexico today who aspire to become drug lords and immortalize themselves in the folk song genre of "corridos," despite knowing it is likely to cut their lives short. Or the allure of the Briganti—gangs of brigands—in southern Italy during the 19th century, when the exploits of regional Robin Hood-like figures were glorified in local folk songs.
Interesting point - I would say similarly rap and reggaton music in the Americas has the same effect... no doubt there are countless examples in various cultures.
Thank you very much! Kleos, as understood by the ancients, was a polyvalent concept with a public recognition of nobility of the hero being the central part of it. I am also fascinated with the seasonality of kleos. Such a beautiful and I feel perhaps less explored aspect of kleos.
I wonder what Achilles and his ilk would have made of social media and the like? Likewise, I wonder what our times would be like if we all strove for some element of meaningful kleos (or immortality) rather than the foolish and idiotic content that will see us live forever on the internet.
Excellent questions. While the means to spread 'Kleos' has expanded - the reason to do perhaps has changed (though I'm sure that scandal and gossip were also prevalent in ancient times)
It reminds me of children and teenagers in Mexico today who aspire to become drug lords and immortalize themselves in the folk song genre of "corridos," despite knowing it is likely to cut their lives short. Or the allure of the Briganti—gangs of brigands—in southern Italy during the 19th century, when the exploits of regional Robin Hood-like figures were glorified in local folk songs.
Interesting point - I would say similarly rap and reggaton music in the Americas has the same effect... no doubt there are countless examples in various cultures.
I enjoyed this. Made me think of Christ’s question to the disciples: “Who do people say that I am?”
Thank you very much! Kleos, as understood by the ancients, was a polyvalent concept with a public recognition of nobility of the hero being the central part of it. I am also fascinated with the seasonality of kleos. Such a beautiful and I feel perhaps less explored aspect of kleos.
I guess the promise of immortality is one way to propagandise people into fighting your war