During the war, Hector, the supreme commander of the Trojans, kills Patroclus, Achilles’ ally and good friend. Achilles then puts himself in danger by going to kill Hector himself in order avenge the murder. He succeeds, and reassures his troops that they are on the way to victory because the Trojans have lost their primary leader. Achilles makes his troops feel relieved before he expressed his sadness about Patroclus to the soldiers, saying “I will never forget him…my dear companion” (554). His words suggest that he truly cared for his friend, and he showed his need to act after hearing of his death. Later, at the funeral games for Patroclus, Achilles “cried,” and handed out trophies and “consolation prizes” to those who deserved or needed them (563, 576). Instead of seeking glory by participating in, and winning the games, he mourns respectfully, and helps others feel better too. Achilles’ actions show that he is selfless and caring, both of which are integral qualities of a great hero, according to
During the war, Hector, the supreme commander of the Trojans, kills Patroclus, Achilles’ ally and good friend. Achilles then puts himself in danger by going to kill Hector himself in order avenge the murder. He succeeds, and reassures his troops that they are on the way to victory because the Trojans have lost their primary leader. Achilles makes his troops feel relieved before he expressed his sadness about Patroclus to the soldiers, saying “I will never forget him…my dear companion” (554). His words suggest that he truly cared for his friend, and he showed his need to act after hearing of his death. Later, at the funeral games for Patroclus, Achilles “cried,” and handed out trophies and “consolation prizes” to those who deserved or needed them (563, 576). Instead of seeking glory by participating in, and winning the games, he mourns respectfully, and helps others feel better too. Achilles’ actions show that he is selfless and caring, both of which are integral qualities of a great hero, according to