Study Guides:

Features: Chapter-By-Chapter Summary and Commentary, Plot Summary, Character Descriptions, Literary Analysis – Themes, Point of View, Form & Structure, Style, Author Description, Study Quiz

http://www.bookrags.com/notes/il/

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/iliad/

http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/monkeynotes/pmIlliad02.asp

http://www.gradesaver.com/classicnotes/titles/iliad/

http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/barrons/iliad.asp

http://www.cliffsnotes.com/WileyCDA/LitNote/id-26.html

http://litsum.com/iliad/

http://education.yahoo.com/homework_help/cliffsnotes/the_iliad/

http://www.novelguide.com/theiliad/

I would agree that the epic poem does leave us with the feeling of cleansing and purgation, but it is not affected by pity and fear. Instead, it is brought about by looking at the tragic hero, pondering the why of his downfall and resolving ourselves not to fall prey to such temptation in our lives.