Blog Post 4/9/18 Philoctetes

We have finally finished Philoctetes, and while everyone is mainly focusing on Phil's experiences, I wanted to focus on Neoptolemus. In case if some aren't aware, Neo is the son of Achilleus. Because he is the son of Achilleus, a lot is expected from Neo. Not only does Neo have this duty to protect his reputation, as well as his father's, he also has this obligation to follow his superior's commands. We just finished The Iliad, so we all know how much of a savage he can be in battle as well as his glory from that battle. It is no shock that Neo had a lot on his mind, he was clearly torn from following his duty and protecting his friend. On one hand, he wanted to follow Odysseus' orders to take Phil back to the battle. Yet on the other hand, Neo wanted to keep his promise to Phil. I feel like what Sophocles was trying to do was to teach his readers the valuable lesson of obligation, duty, emotional conflict, and decision making. Neo is clouded by glory, and loyalty as well. He too wants to be remembered and keep up his family's name, so he must do what it takes to get to that point. At the same time, Neo is soft hearted. He wants to help Phil, but this desire of glory and honor is just too much of a factor for him. It's tragic but interesting to witness when one is stuck in such a situation.