BOOK XIII.

ARGUMENT.

THE FOURTH BATTLE CONTINUED, IN WHICH NEPTUNE ASSISTS THE

GREEKS: THE ACTS

OF IDOMENEUS.

Neptune, concerned for the loss of the Grecians, upon seeing the

fortification forced by Hector, (who had entered the gate near the station

of the Ajaces,) assumes the shape of Calchas, and inspires those heroes to

oppose him: then, in the form of one of the generals, encourages the other

Greeks who had retired to their vessels. The Ajaces form their troops in a

close phalanx, and put a stop to Hector and the Trojans. Several deeds of

valour are performed; Meriones, losing his spear in the encounter, repairs

to seek another at the tent of Idomeneus: this occasions a conversation

between those two warriors, who return together to the battle. Idomeneus

signalizes his courage above the rest; he kills Othryoneus, Asius, and

Alcathous: Deiphobus and Æneas march against him, and at length Idomeneus

retires. Menelaus wounds Helenus, and kills Pisander. The Trojans are

repulsed on the left wing; Hector still keeps his ground against the

Ajaces, till, being galled by the Locrian slingers and archers, Polydamas

advises to call a council of war: Hector approves of his advice, but goes

first to rally the Trojans; upbraids Paris, rejoins Polydamas, meets Ajax

again, and renews the attack.

469

The Iliad of Homer