Achilles Vs. Hector In The Iliad By Homer

In “The Iliad” by Homer, the swift runner Achilles fights the prince of Troy, Hector. After a comparison of the two heroes, there were more differences than similarities. This may be true, but both still are great warriors for their side; Achilles for the Archaeans and Hector for Troy. And while Achilles and Hector fight on opposing sides, both heroes demonstrate honor, sympathy, and determination. Even though Achilles and Hector on opposing sides, each demonstrates honor to those around them. Hector shows time and time again his devotion and honor to his family, including his parents and wife, and his city including the people living in it. “Hector is consistently honorable and fights to defend his people.” -”How Are Hector and Achilles Alike and Different in Homer's Iliad. | ENotes." Enotes.com. Enotes.com, n.d. Web. 30 Oct. 2016. While Achilles might not honor his family as strongly as Hector, he still honors his country and his fellow warriors and friends. “...they will honor you, honor you like a god. Think of the glory you will gather in their eyes” -Homer, The Iliad (9.367-368). He’s respected by his peers and is greatly appreciated by the Archaeans. Both heroes show some degree of sympathy for different people. For example, as ruthless as Achilles may be, he shows pity to Priam, Hector’s father, after Priam coming to Achilles to ask
Achilles is less honorable and brave, he’s still a good hero. Hector on the other hand respects and honors his family, wife, and child along with his city and people in it, like a true hero. Hector is the better hero morally, but is not the protagonist. Achilles is selfish and lacks good heroic qualities about him. He has anger issues and most of the time only fights for himself. As the reader sees the two heroes, it’s clear that though they have differences, they’re more alike than many