typetext
Let us encode the main theme in purely mathematical terms.
1. Basic objects
• Let t ∈ [0,T] be “narrative time.”
• Let R(t) ∈ ℝ₊ be Achilles’ wrath‐intensity at time t.
• Let D(t) ∈ ℝ₊ be the cumulative death‐count (“destruction”) up to time t.
• Let H(t) ∈ ℝ₊ be Achilles’ honor (kleos) at time t.
• Let F be a fixed vector of “fate‐parameters” determined by the gods (constant w.r.t. t).
2. Governing relations
(i) dD/dt = α⋅R(t) + β⋅G(t)
– here G(t) models discrete divine interventions; α,β>0.
(ii) dH/dt = γ⋅R(t) – δ⋅D(t)
– honor rises with wrath but is eroded by mounting destruction; γ,δ>0.
(iii) R(0)=R₀>0, H(0)=H₀≥0, D(0)=0, F fixed.
3. Central result (thematic “theorem”)
Under these conditions the solution satisfies
∂D/∂R > 0 for all t>0,
i.e. D(t) is a strictly increasing function of R(t).
4. Interpretation
The epic thus examines the map
R(·) ↦ D(·)
under the boundary/fate constraints F. Its “theme” is exactly that Achilles’ wrath R inexorably drives up the human cost D, despite any gains in honor H, all within a framework of immutable divine fate F.