The Aeneid Books I-Iii Essay, Research Paper

The Aeneid: Books I-III

What makes Aeolus go along with Juno?s plan to destroy the Trojans?

In the beginning of The Aeneid we learn that Juno, the queen of gods, hates the Trojans because of Paris? judgment against her. The city of Carthage is beloved by Juno; ?it is said…more dear than her own Samos; here she kept her chariot and armor?(Book I, 25-26), and there is a rumor that one day the Trojans will destroy the city. Juno describes the thought of this as being unbearable, so she tries to prevent any Trojans from coming near the city. Aeneas and his men are Trojans. Juno feels she must stop them so she calls on Aeolus, the god of winds. Aeolus answers, and he unleashes a fierce storm onto the men.

When Aeolus listens to Juno?s plead for help, he replies ?O Queen, your task is to discover what you wish; and mine, to act at your command?(Book I, 110-113). Why does Aeolus act as Juno?s slave? Juno tries to bribe him with promises of beautiful nymphs (Book I, 104-109), but surely Aeolus was able to find suitable lovers on his own, that would not be enough to convince Aeolus. I would say that Aeolus obeys Juno out of respect and gratitude; Aeolus says ?for you have won for me this modest kingdom…and Jove?s goodwill. You gave me leave to lean beside the banquets of the gods, and you have made me lord of tempests and of clouds? (Book I, 113-116). Juno must have helped Aeolus out quite a bit in the past, and he was simply returning the favor.

Why does Aeolus, the god of winds, choose to obey Juno so promptly, and try to destroy Aeneas and his men?