Is Hector A Hero In The Iliad
A hero, illustrated through the majority of notable Greek works of literature, is established by a precise set of characteristics that separate them from the ordinary, and allows them to be remembered as exceptional champions. In the Odyssey, the ideal hero is exemplified by their extraordinary level of intelligence, and ability to outwit their opponents. In comparison, the Homeric world of the Iliad portrays the true essence of a hero by physical as opposed to mental strength. In this manner, Achilles distinguished strength and speed are shown countless times throughout the tale. The most notable examples of this are shown as he faces Hector, illustrated in contrast to powerful creatures and forces, that help to prove that in the Homeric sense
…show more content…
Another specific example of his strength can be found during the chase, as “swift Achilles kept on coursing Hector, nonstop / as a hound in the mountains starts a fawn from its lair / hunting him down the gorges” (547). This example helps to further represent Achilles endurance. Again it depicts him once more as a mighty beast, hunting restlessly, and his prey nothing more than a meek creature. Furthermore, this helps the reader to understand that even though Hector is illustrated as a powerful leader and warrior within the Iliad as well, even he falls short against the physical strength that Achilles possesses. This almighty “breaker of horses” becomes nothing more than a vulnerable fawn when matched against this powerful hero.
Another instance of this is shown while Achilles trailing Hector round and round the mighty walls of Troy. As Hector fled in fear, Achilles “went for him, fast, sure of his speed / as the wild mountain hawk, the quickest thing on wings, / launching smoothly, swooping down on a cringing dove” (546). The detailed precision of the mountain hawk shown in this excerpt perfectly characterizes all the heroic traits that he possesses. Achilles is inhumanly swift and powerful with every step he takes, only further proving himself with true physical
Another specific example of his strength can be found during the chase, as “swift Achilles kept on coursing Hector, nonstop / as a hound in the mountains starts a fawn from its lair / hunting him down the gorges” (547). This example helps to further represent Achilles endurance. Again it depicts him once more as a mighty beast, hunting restlessly, and his prey nothing more than a meek creature. Furthermore, this helps the reader to understand that even though Hector is illustrated as a powerful leader and warrior within the Iliad as well, even he falls short against the physical strength that Achilles possesses. This almighty “breaker of horses” becomes nothing more than a vulnerable fawn when matched against this powerful hero.
Another instance of this is shown while Achilles trailing Hector round and round the mighty walls of Troy. As Hector fled in fear, Achilles “went for him, fast, sure of his speed / as the wild mountain hawk, the quickest thing on wings, / launching smoothly, swooping down on a cringing dove” (546). The detailed precision of the mountain hawk shown in this excerpt perfectly characterizes all the heroic traits that he possesses. Achilles is inhumanly swift and powerful with every step he takes, only further proving himself with true physical