Comparison of achilles and hector
Homer's epic The Iliad takes place in the ninth year of a ten year war between the Trojans and the Achaeans. This great war places Hector (of the Trojans) and Achilles (of the Achaeans) in direct conflict as the are the best warriors in their respective communities and therefor responsible for inspiration and leadership of their people. Relentless and bold during combat their great skill in battle makes them heroes in the eyes of their peers. As hero's both Achilles and Hector share characteristics generally associated with any man of distinguished valor such as bravery, honor and worth. Alike also in attempts to overstep their bounds, both men are ruled by fate through the mercy of the gods. Despite similarities as great warrior heroes, the pair differ immensely in personal inspiration as illustrated best by examining the motivation for each to fight. The reasons for joining the battle, namely passion for Achilles and duty for Hector, highlight the central distinction in char!acters. Achilles is ruled by his uncontrollable passions as seen in his rage and proud headstrong ways, whereas Hector is motivated by duty and honor proving him to be a noble levelheaded leader. These characteristics in Hector prove him to acts out of obl
He is good-hearted, loyal and noble, a true man of honor. The circumstance regarding the final battle between Hector and Achilles proves all three qualities essential to a hero of the time. Countless examples of this ruthlessness on the battlefield are given for both Achilles and Hector. Warriors obligated to kill without thought must also possess relentlessness in battle and make no allowances for mercy or pity. 15Fitzgerald, 213 lines 392-393 ------------------------------------------------------------------------**Bibliography**1 Homer, The Iliad, trans. Honor is apparent in this situation due to the insight they both have concerning their oncoming doom yet proceed to battle. Achilles passion rules his every action, and in the end it is what finally rousts him to battle. He gets a glimpse into Zeus's wisdom and the knowledge of order. Though both try to surpass the limits set for them because of different reasons, still a common overconfidence is present in each. Achilles however asks why things are this way and declares' "The portions equal whether a man hangs back or fights his best; the same respect, or lack of it, is given brave man or coward"14. Hector is one of the most honorable characters in the saga and his behavior is motivated solely by responsibility to his protect city and people. As Hector functions out of obligation and therefor he doesn't question the purpose of it all as Achilles does. Present in both is the essential audacity needed in someone that has control over the fate of others (the armies).
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