Aeneas and Leadership

Aeneas and leadership

In The Aeneid the true definition of a great leader is portrayed through Aeneas and his actions. In an article by Ahn, Mark J., Larry W. Ettner, and Amanda Loupin it is said that “Leadership by example was defined as the collective actions, decisions and general deportment of leaders. From a modern leadership perspective, leadership by example plays a powerful role in enhancing the performance of followers. Gachter and Renner found that “the more a leader sacrifices, the higher the contributions of subsequent followers” ([39] Guth et al. , 2007). Ultimately, leadership by example creates a multiple effect throughout the organization, which can significantly strengthen culture, cohesion, and enhance efficiency”.(115) Anyone can attempt to be a leader, but it takes a lot of responsibility and courage to become a significant one. Great leadership from Aeneas is shown in numerous ways, but the leadership traits that truly stand out are his bravery, devotedness, and the sacrifices that he has to make.

Aeneas’ character shows his bravery, and also that he is a fearless leader. When he is appointed to be the leader of his country, he does not back down, but proudly accepts his position and takes care of his duties. An important factor between a leader and his followers is trust. His crewmen have full faith in Aeneas believing that he will lead them in the right path, and keep them safe throughout their journey to find Rome. According to the article by Ahn, Mark J., Larry W. Ettner, and Amanda Loupin it is said that “Trust is defined as relationship of reliance between leaders and followers. In modern leadership, trust plays a vital role in organizations. According to Dirks and Ferrin, “elevated levels of trust are organization's leadership that enhances work attitudes, citizenship behaviours, and job performances” ([26] Dirks and Ferrin (2002). He shows his bravery when he and his crew encounter a ship wreck. It is believed that he has lost one of his men. He remains headstrong, and does not let his emotions get in the way of accomplishing what he is set out to complete. He keeps a strong-mind, even though his heart is full. Aeneas does not let his crew see him break, he stays calm and collective. Aeneas remains very humble, and has a sense of humility. According to the article by Ahn, Mark J., Larry W. Ettner, and Amanda Loupin, “Humility is a lack of arrogance, capacity to listen carefully, and without ego - which strengthens leadership competence and performance. As a leader, Aeneas was "always thoughtful of his men, comforting them when they are downcast, though he is himself steeped in sorrow, or is grieving because of the burning of his boats and the prospective separation of many of his comrades” ([40] Hahn, 1931, p. 665). Aeneas takes it upon himself to be the best leader that he can possibly be, and fights for his country not matter what obstacles he has to face. Overall, he stays courageous, and trusts the gods through it all.

Aeneas stays wholeheartedly devoted to himself, his country, his crew, and also to the gods. He focuses on his goals. Even through the trials that he faces, he keeps his destiny at the top of his priorities. He is so devoted to his mission that when he faces the outcome of his fate, it does not stop him from finding the city. Aeneas follows every instruction that is given to him without asking questions, and to the best of his abilities. Even though Aeneas faces some hard times, he does what it takes to be a great leader and to remain devoted to his country and his mission. When he faces tough times and makes quick decisions, he remains untroubled and has a clear open mind. In the article by Ahn, Mark J., Larry W. Ettner, and Amanda Loupin it says, “Decision making is defined as the steadfast adherence and support of directives that follow the chain of command, unless requested actions are immoral, illegal or unethical. The exercise of effective decision making in uncertainty faces Aeneas throughout his journey. After great sacrifice and heroism, for example, Aeneas chooses not to dictate peace on his own terms, which would have been costly to maintain and enforce, proclaiming, "For myself, I ask no kingdom" (Book XII, 258). In this context, effective decision

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