Aeneid Book 10 and 11 Questions

Compare and contrast the appeals of Venus and Juno.

       The appeals of Venus are mainly different in that Venus is level-headed in her speech, while Juno flies off the handle and is overcome with anger. Venus shows Zeus how the Rutulians are inside Trojan walls already, and of all the bloodshed. She appeals to give Ascanius safe passage, and the power to shield Aeneas. This is a very compelling argument because she shows the tragedy that has befallen the Trojans, and she also shows her compassion towards her son and grandson. Juno on the other hand starts with an outburst of anger, and her argument consists mainly of many questions. She gives many statements saying that she did not do something, but she offers up no support to her argument. We can see an example of this on page 296, Virgil writes, "IS it I who try to overwhelm from the roots up your sinking Phrygian state? Not I!" She also claims that she was not the one who drove Aeneas to ruin, when in fact she has been the one plotting to try and stop him from the beginning, sending in various traps and hindrances to interfere with his voyage. Venus' argument was well supported and convincing, while Juno's was in a frenzy, with no support, and was not convincing.

Aeneid Book 9 Question

How do we see Ascanius acting as a leader in this episode? What are the characteristics of desirable leadership?  This is important given the context of the writing of the Aeneid.

       We see Ascanius acting as a leader in this episode when the leaders need to find a messenger to meet Aeneas. He takes charge in a sense of the situation, insisting on his father's safe return. He then promises gifts for Nisus if he goes.We can infer from this encounter that Desirable leadership entails generosity, and love. Aeneas offers Nisus a fortune for his work, and this is a great role of leadership because he treats his men well, and rewards them for their work. This will result in happiness and high morale for all the men. Also, Ascanius portrays love for his father. He gives his speech because he is touched by his love for his father, which shows he is not afraid to let his emotions show for his father. This shows his affection, and perhaps even bravery to expose himself like this in front of all the men.