Achilles In The Iliad

Nestor, noble charioteer, captures best the essence of Achilles when he says, “Achilles, brave as he is, he has no care, / no pity for our Achaeans” (Homer 11.787-788). Most readers of the Iliad, consider Achilles the greatest warrior of The Trojan War, however, he lacks an important characteristic; care for others. Achilles’ best friend Patroclus, has described him as a great warrior, but a terrible person (11.774). A great warrior is said to belong to greater cause and is willing to give their all to this cause, expecting nothing in return (PTPT). In Homer's Iliad, Hector the great warrior of the Trojans, exhibits this selfless leadership approach, which contrasts to Achilles’ selfish actions as a leader, it’s through Achilles’ self-centered

Risking one’s own life for that of another, is the ultimate demonstration of selflessness. Hector’s selfless dedication contrasts to Achilles’ lack of dedication to his army, while also highlighting Achilles’ total dedication to himself. Hector demonstrates his selfless dedication to his army when he visits his wife Andromache, who begs him not leave her and their son, as she feels he is going to die if he returns to battle. Hector acknowledges her concerns, but ultimately responds by saying, “All this weighs on my mind too, dear woman. / But I would die of shame to face the men of Troy/ and the Trojan women trailing their long robes / if I would shrink from battle now, a coward” (6.522-5). Hector demonstrates through this line, how he is serious about his role as a warrior and is willing to risk his life in order to help advance his army. Achilles by contrast, shows that his loyalty and devotion is to himself. An example of this is when Achilles is not participating in the war and asks his mother Thetis

Another example of Achilles’ dedication to himself is when his best friend Patroclus is preparing to depart for battle in Achilles’ place. Before Patroclus leaves, Achilles advises him, “You must not burn for war against these Trojans, / madmen lusting for battle-not without me- you will only make my glory that much less” (16.104-6). Achilles’ advice here, is the epitome of his selfishness and lack of dedication to others, as in this moment he shows no concern for the safety of his closest friend, only for his reputation. Through the comparison of Hector’s selfless dedication to the Trojans and Achilles’ complete disregard for the Achaeans, it’s clear that Hector is the stronger leader, as he is loyal to the people he leads, making him the greater