Trojan War in the Iliad,

Trojan War

In the Iliad, Hector and Achilles are two individuals who illustrate the contrasting values of each man and the sides they represent in the Trojan War. This is demonstrated based upon the way they act and how they carry themselves. To fully understand the differences between them requires comparing and contrasting them with each other. This will be accomplished by focusing on their behaviors / values, which one is more admirable and the concept of heroism. Together elements will highlight the differences between these individuals. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

Hector's behaviors and values are focused on upholding higher noble standards when it comes to his family, country and what Troy stands for. At the same time, he is stubborn and will support these beliefs at any cost. While Achilles, is interested only in himself and his own personal glorification. These differences mean that Achilles must be provided with more incentives for engaging in battle and the actions he takes as it is unfolding. Whereas Hector, is conflicted as he wants to remain loyal to his family and the citizens of Troy. Yet, he is also worried about making his wife a widow and leaving his child as an orphan. These factors create a situation, where Hector is torn between being there for his immediate family and protecting the larger interests of Troy. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

The more admirable hero is Hector. This is because he has greater amounts of loyalty to those around over himself. This is despite the fact that he will face tremendous amounts of uncertainty about his decisions and the possibility that he may not return to see his wife again. While Achilles, is unpredictable and out of control, who is concerned only about his own personal ambitions. In the Iliad, these differences are represented when the Greek army is quickly approaching Troy. Hector chooses to remain outside of the walls in order to repel the invaders. This is despite his father, telling him to fall back and seek refuge inside the city behind its defensive fortifications. As the army is moving closer towards his position, he has fear about what the upcoming battle will bring. Yet, he sets these concerns aside in order to fulfill his duty as a warrior. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

While Achilles, is the complete opposite. An example of his selfish behavior occurred after he killed Hector. Instead, of leaving his body behind, he drags it around to show everyone in Troy his latest conquest. This is clearly, an example of him wanting to illustrate his own personal ambitions over everything else. In this aspect, one could argue that Achilles did not have any respect for Troy, the traditions of sacrifice / selflessness and only fought for his own glorification over everything else. The fact that Hector defended these larger ideals is what makes him more admirable than Achilles. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)

The ancient Greeks had two different concepts of heroism. The most notable include: an individual who performed some great deed when they were alive and became a deity based upon these actions. At the same time, someone could be considered to be a hero if they are ready to give their life in order to obtain immortal glory. In this aspect, the ancient Greeks accepted the fact that Achilles was willing to give his life in support of Greece's honor. (Homer, 1876) (Harris, 2011)