Q2: To what extent do you think that Aeneas behaves as a hero should, in the books of Aeneid which you have read?
Give reasons for your views and support them with details from Aeneid Books 1,2 and 4
In Aeneid book 1,2 & 4 Aeneas behaviours like a hero on many occasions such as when Helen 'lurking behind the threshold of Vesta's temple' (Book 2, page 48). This happens just after Aeneas has considered the fates of his father, wife and son. Aeneas describes
his feelings, “A flame of anger blazed through my heart, a fury to
avenge the downfall of my country, to punish her wicked crimes.
There's no honour in punishing women, but to blot out that evil -
that's a job worth doing, and I shall be praised for punishing this
one - she richly deserves it. And I shall enjoy the pleasure of
glutting my hatred and avenging my loved ones.”(Book 2, page 48)
Aeneas is on the point of murdering Helen when his mother, Venus,
appears and tells Aeneas to be more concerned with the safety of his
family and to focus upon escape rather than vengeance.