The Many Lives of Ajax

An expository book redefining the role and presence of the archetypal Greek warrior, Ajax, in western history and culture. The Many Lives of Ajax reveals “Ajax” as the predominant voice in the whole of The Iliad as well as a defining voice in myriad sources across the classical continuum.

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Ajax, the archetypal Greek warrior, has over the years been trivialized as a peripheral character in the classics through Hollywood representations, and by the use of his name on household cleaning products. Examining a broad range of sources--from film, art and literature to advertising and sports--this study of the "Bulwark of the Achaeans" and his mythological image redefines his presence in Western culture, revealing him as the predominant voice in The Iliad and in myriad works across the classical canon.