In the Iliad, there are many characters who could be considered heroic. But the two main characters who strike me as heroes are the quick-footed Achilles and the flashing-helmeted Hector. On numerous occasions throughout the epic, they display qualities and traits that are unsurpassed by anyone on their side. Repeatedly throughout the epic, Achilles and Hector are tested for their strength and will to win in battle, which for both warriors always ends up being positive as they always win their battles. Although both fighters are among the armies' elite, they each demonstrate human and divine qualities that help them to be as fierce and feared as possible. As soon as we are exposed to Achilles in battle, it is obvious why he is the hero of the Achaeans. He is very dedicated and even the heat of battle does not bother him, as he mows down rows and rows of his opponents. His dedication to combat is perfectly demonstrated when he speaks of battle: "I have no taste for food - what I really crave is slaughter, blood and the choking groans of men" (Homer Book 19, line 255). Although this quote is very gory, it shows his love of fighting and how much he wants to be great. When Achilles was young, his mother, Thetis, goddess of the sea, gave him a choice: either he could be a great warrior, have a ton of glory, be remembered forever but would have to die young, or Achilles could live a lifetime. normal life. life, would not be a great warrior, nor would he be remembered, but he would live to a ripe old age. This is yet another example of Achilles' heroism as he decides to become a warrior and help his country. In battle, Achilles knows his strength and because of this, he is very arrogant and wants things done his way. In light of the fact that his mother is a g...... middle of paper...... he has almost gone crazy obsessing over destroying that body. Since we leave the story with this view of Achilles, we have no further chance to see the good side of him, and we assume that he is a disgusting warrior. The epic began with one incredibly strong warrior, the extremely feared Achilles, and another. powerful man, Hector, who was not as famous as Achilles. But, at the end of the story, we are left with one noble man, Hector, and another, Achilles, despised due to his unnecessary and exaggerated actions. Although both men, Hector and Achilles, are considered heroes, Hector stands out at the end of the novel because of his respectable act in attempting to fight Achilles. Overall, both men are fierce leaders who have both continually shown what they are capable of and what they are able to do with what they have been given..