Archilles and Hector Compare

Achilles and Hector Compare and Contrast Essay

In Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad, the Greek army has traveled to Troy to battle the Trojan army; the war lasted for 10 years. Both armies fight for their belief and ideas because they consist with the heroic warrior code of ancient Greece. There are two main characters, Achilles and Hector; both continuously display a complexity of character that remains evident throughout the poem. Achilles fights for the Greek army, Hector fights for the Trojan army. There are many differences and similarities between Achilles and Hector.

The similarities are Achilles and Hector is the greatest warrior at that time. They both carry the chance of victory or defeat for their people. They were betrayed by the Agamemnon. They are both sons of kings; Achilles is son of Peleus, and Hector son of Priam. Both suffer from arrogance and pride. Hector shows it, when he refuses to withdraw the camp into the Trojan walls. And Achilles shows his when he refuses to fight, when Agamemnon takes his war prize from him.

The differences are Hector is a team player, as well as a gifted leader and soldier. Unlike Achilles, Hector is the more complete and well-rounded person. He is a loving husband, father, son, and brother. Achilles was a pampered, spoiled only child who grew up with an overdeveloped sense of his place in the world. He is an admirable warrior, and his skill in battle boosts the morale of his fellow Greeks when he chooses to fight, but he is an unreliable leader who sulks when he doesn’t get his way.

Hector and Achilles, the proud leaders of the Greeks and Trojans dominate the battlefield throughout The Iliad. Hector wins people’s hearts, he is brave, strong, and he cares for his family, protects his people, and leads his soldiers into battle. Achilles causes countless deaths on the Greek side, doesn’t care about anyone, but himself. Some people might argue that Achilles might be the better leader than Hector because of his skills...