Final answer:
Achilles and Ulysses' disagreement stems from their contrasting personalities and motivations during the Trojan War. Their disagreement is resolved when Achilles finds closure through avenging the death of his friend, Patroclus.
Step-by-step explanation:
The source of Achilles and Ulysses' disagreement can be traced back to the Trojan War. In Homer's epic poem, the Iliad, Achilles and Ulysses have contrasting personalities and motivations which lead to their disagreement. Achilles is a fierce and impulsive warrior who is driven by his desire for honor and glory, while Ulysses is a cunning and strategic leader who prioritizes the greater good of the Greek forces.
Their disagreement arises when Agamemnon, the leader of the Greek army, takes Achilles' war prize, Briseis, as his own. This deeply offends Achilles and he decides to withdraw from battle, refusing to fight for what he perceives as an unfair and disrespectful act. Ulysses, on the other hand, argues that Achilles should set aside his personal grievances and continue fighting for the sake of the Greek forces and their ultimate victory.
Their disagreement is eventually resolved when Achilles is moved by the death of his close friend Patroclus, who was killed by Hector, a Trojan prince. Seeking revenge, Achilles returns to the battlefield and fights Hector, eventually killing him. This act of vengeance allows Achilles to find closure and regain his purpose in the war, reconciling with Ulysses and rejoining the Greek forces.
Learn more about The disagreement between Achilles and Ulysses