The phrase "On his knees he begged them" has the effect of emphasizing how much Chryses wants to see his daughter again. This imagery conveys a sense of desperation and vulnerability, highlighting the intense emotional stakes for Chryses as he pleads for the return of his daughter, Chryseis. His physical posture of kneeling underscores his fervent desire and the gravity of the situation, making it clear that he is willing to humble himself in order to seek her release.
Read the excerpt from "The Quarrel" from "Stories from the Iliad."
It happened that Chryses, priest of Apollo, came to Agamemnon and the other Greek chiefs. He had come to offer much gold to ransom his daughter, Chryseis. On his knees he begged them to take the gold and give him back the girl. “If you will do this,” he said, “may the gods help you to take the city of Troy, and bring you back safe to your homes.”
Question
What effect does the phrase "On his knees he begged them" have on the meaning of the excerpt from "The Quarrel"?
Responses
It emphasizes how much Chryses wants to see his daughter again.
It emphasizes how much Chryses wants to see his daughter again.
It shows how much Chryses respects Agamemnon.
It shows how much Chryses respects Agamemnon.
It suggests that Chryses is afraid of the Greeks and will do whatever they say.
It suggests that Chryses is afraid of the Greeks and will do whatever they say.
It implies that Chryses is trying to manipulate Agamemnon by appealing to his emotions.
It implies that Chryses is trying to manipulate Agamemnon by appealing to his emotions.
1 answer