Editing Geras (section)

== Function ==
Geras as embodied in humans represented a virtue: the more ''gēras'' a man acquired, the more ''[[kleos]]'' (fame) and ''[[arete]]'' (excellence and courage) he was considered to have. In [[ancient Greek literature]], the related word ''géras'' (γέρας) can also carry the meaning of influence, authority or power; especially that derived from fame, good looks and strength claimed through success in battle or contest. Such uses of this meaning can be found in [[Odyssey|Homer's ''Odyssey'']], throughout which there is an evident concern from the various kings about the ''géras'' they will pass to their sons through their names.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://classics.mit.edu/Homer/odyssey.html|title=The Internet Classics Archive {{!}} The Odyssey by Homer|website=classics.mit.edu|access-date=2019-07-04}}</ref> The concern is significant because kings at this time (such as Odysseus) are believed to have ruled by common assent in recognition of their powerful influence, rather than [[Hereditary monarchy|hereditarily]].<ref>For an example of this, see Homer, The Odyssey, 24.33-34</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Thomas|first=C. G.|date=1966|title=The Roots of Homeric Kingship|journal=Historia: Zeitschrift für Alte Geschichte|volume=15|issue=4|pages=387–407|issn=0018-2311|jstor=4434948}}</ref>

Geras could refer to the treasure that was awarded during battles in Ancient Greece. After a battle, the victorious power would collect the captured gold, treasure, and other valuable artefacts. It would then be divided between the victors according to their timê or honour; the greater the honour, the greater the level of Geras that would be gained.

In Homer's Iliad, Agamemnon and Achilles fall out over a dispute of the return Chryses' daughter and taking Briseis in exchange (Book 1); Achilles sees Agamemnon taking his Gera as an affront to his pride and honour. Similarly, in many Hellenic cultures, it is customary to take the armour of a defeated enemy, a form of Gera, such as in Book 16 with Hector and Patroclus fighting over the body of Cebriones, son of Priam - King of Troy.