Legacy And Burial Of Hektor In The Iliad

Homer concludes The Iliad with the death and burial of Hektor in order to highlight the importance of legacy and redemption which leads to a positive consequence of the bloody Trojan War. At the end of the poem, Hektor dies and Akhilleus dements his body. However, Hektor sparks the change that softens Akhilleus’ heart and the people remember the heroic deeds of Hektor. Although his mortal body decays, Hektor passes on his inspiring words and actions. Hektor died without regret for how he fought Akhilleus and said, “I will no longer fear you as before, son of Peleus, though I ran from you round Priam’s town three times and could not face you. Now my soul would have me stand and fight, whether I kill you or am killed”