Aeneas; Development (Growth & change)

He is brave and eager to fight – as soon as he hears Turnus’ name he ‘flings off all delays’ (699) and goes straight to fight. This is both because he is brave and also because he wishes to settle this dispute by single combat, avoiding unnecessary bloodshed, which makes him humane.
His ferocity in battle is clear from the simile of the bulls charging into deadly battle (717), which shows the aggression of both, and the ‘frequent blows’ (713) they exchange
at the end, when Turnus appeals for mercy, Aeneas is described as ‘hesitating’ as Turnus’ words have started to sway him (940-941). Aeneas has the impulse to respond to Turnus’ pleas for his father and spare him. This suggests again his basic humanity and mercy, BUT Aeneas is described as ‘blazing’ or ‘passionate’ (fervidus) as he strikes the final blow.
changes from that of a Trojan at the beginning of the book to a Roman at the end. Important he shows Roman traits as the Aeneid was written in Rome's heyday. The Romans did not want their founder to be seen as a weak loser (Trojan)

Resource summary

	Created by evie.challis almost 11 years ago