Milan Kundera's essay, "The Curtain," explores the complexities of existence and the human condition through various lenses, including literature and philosophy. He reflects on how characters in epic tales, like those from Homer's works, engage in fierce battles without concern for the aftermath or physical consequences for one another. This highlights a detachment from the physical toll of conflict, pointing to the broader themes of war and mortality in human life.

By referencing how Homer’s characters never question the state of their opponents after intense struggles, Kundera emphasizes the relentless nature of such conflicts and the emotional detachment often involved. It invites readers to consider how individuals can focus on the struggle itself rather than the lasting impacts, prompting a deeper contemplation of the narratives we create about heroism, honor, and the human experience.