Hector Vs. Achilles In The Illiad

Sigmund Freud once said “It is impossible to escape the impression that people commonly use false standards of measurement—that they seek power, success and wealth for themselves and admire them in others, and that they underestimate what is of true value in life.” Admiration is achieved through means beyond that of prominence. It is a commendation that is secured through integrity and honor. Freud’s words are especially true when exploring the contrasts between Hector and Achilles, heroes from the great war tale, The Illiad. Hector proves to be a more admirable character than Achilles when presented in The Illiad and the movie Troy, through his noble characteristics that surpass that of his demigod enemy. Hector’s qualities of respect, wisdom and strategy, and bravery are what categorizes him as an …show more content…
Regardless of the pleas from his father and mother for him not to fight, Hector ignores them and bravely exits the gates for battle. When face to face with the great warrior Achilles, Hector states, “…but now my heart bids me to stand and face you, for death or for life.” (Homer 318). He bravely faces Achilles, despite the fact that Achilles is a demigod and therefore more powerful than him. In the movie, Hector knows there is good chance he might not come out victorious and prepares his wife for escape should he die. Even knowing the dooming facts before him, Hector bravely and respectfully battles Achilles. Even though Achilles may have come out victorious over Hector, it does not make him more admirable. Achilles may have had strength and a considerable amount of war triumphs, but he did not have the amount of honor, wisdom, and courage that Hector had. Despite his demise, Hector had a heart for his people and the soul of a warrior. Hector is greatly esteemed because he had true values of life and demonstrated them through his heroic