21.  This expression (the gates of Heaven) is in the eastern manner,
   and common in the Scriptures.

22. [{Area tonde}.]

23.  Every thing that enters the dark empire of Hades disappears, and
   is seen no more; hence the figurative expression, to put on Pluto’s
   helmet; that is to become invisible.

Footnotes for Book VI: 
1.  The Simois and Xanthus were two rivers of the Troad, which form a
   junction before they reached the Hellespont.  The Simois rose in Mt. 
   Ida, and the Xanthus had its origin near Troy.—­FELTON.

2.  Ajax commences his exploits immediately on the departure of the
   gods from the battle.  It is observed of this hero, that he is never
   assisted by the deities.

3.  Axylus was distinguished for his hospitality.  This trait was
   characteristic of the Oriental nations, and is often alluded to by
   ancient writers.  The rite of hospitality often united families
   belonging to different and hostile nations, and was even
   transmitted from father to son.  This description is a fine tribute
   to the generosity of Axylus.—­FELTON

4. [Euryalus.]

5.  Agamemnon’s taking the life of the Trojan whom Menelaus had
   pardoned, was according to the custom of the times.  The historical
   books of the Old Testament abound in instances of the like cruelty
   to conquered enemies.

6.  This important maxim of war is very naturally introduced, upon
   Menelaus being ready to spare an enemy for the sake of a ransom. 
   According to Dacier, it was for such lessons as these that
   Alexander so much esteemed Homer and studied his poem.

7.  The custom of making donations to the gods is found among the
   ancients, from the earliest times of which we have any record down
   to the introduction of Christianity; and even after that period it
   was observed by the Christians during the middle ages.  Its origin
   seems to have been the same as that of sacrifices:  viz. the belief
   that the gods were susceptible of influence in their conduct
   towards men.  These gifts were sometimes very costly, but often
   nothing more than locks of hair cut from the head of the votary.

8.  Diomede had knowingly wounded and insulted the deities; he
   therefore met Glaucus with a superstitious fear that he might be
   some deity in human shape.  This feeling brought to his mind the
   story of Lycurgus.

9.  It is said that Lycurgus caused most of the vines of his country to
   be rooted up, so that his subjects were obliged to mix their wine
   with water, as it became less plentiful.  Hence the fable that
   Thetis received Bacchus into her bosom.

10.  This style of language was according to the manners of the times. 
   Thus Goliath to David, “Approach, and I will give thy flesh to the
   fowls of the air and the beasts of the field.”  The Orientals still
   speak in the same manner.