Becoming An Epic Hero In The Iliad By Homer

In The Iliad, Homer has created many characters that are heroes from their own perspective. Throughout the poem, we come into contact with characters like Achilles and Hector, who are truly heroes. Also, their qualities of being an epic hero according to Homer are very different from each other. However, Paris is shown demonstrating qualities that are unbecoming of a hero. Therefore, I will begin to talk about the heroic qualities between Achilles and Hector. As well as, Paris qualities of unbecoming a hero in the Iliad.

First off, what is defined to be an epic hero. The epic hero must have a fighting accuracy that stands out from everyone else. The epic hero must have bravery that motivates his men to do good in battle. He has to be inspiring by others with his good morals and ethics. He has to be a leader who can command loyalty to his men. However, every hero can make a fatal error whether it is physical or spiritual. The hero has to recognize the error in order to heal and transcend it. The hero then learns by behaving dishonorable and later on redeeming himself from his dishonorable. That is why every epic hero must …show more content…
This is presented by how easily he takes Hector’s criticisms for when he runs from Menelaus the first time he sees him on the battle field: “Ah Hector, you criticize me fairly, yes, nothing unfair, beyond what I deserve.” (The Iliad 130).
In conclusion, to the issue of who has the qualities of being an epic hero to the poem, it is hard to give a definitive answer. If we were to judge by personal philosophies and values, then Pariswould be the most heroic because he doesn’t appear to let his pride run away with them. If physical accomplishments like battles won, then Achilles or Hector would be the best bet, as they are seen to be two of the greatest warriors during the Trojan. Either way, all three character have different qualities and setting the standards of being an epic