Classifying the main characters of The Iliad and The Odyssey as heroes may be a daunting task. Heroes satisfy a wide variety personal preferences and cultures therefore creating difficulty in determining who the true hero is. However, most heroes share many of the same trends such as positive morals, admirable ideals, or some metaphysical abilities. With these god-like characteristics they are sent off on a mission or quest where they must face a challenge or some test. Agamemnon, Hector, Achilles, and Odysseus are to be put to the test once again to reveal who is the greatest hero. .
Agamemnon, king of Argos, fights boldly for his brother's wife. However, he is far from reasonable and tends to make foolish decisions. His selfish actions brought plague to Greek armies and his hostility towards Achilles could have changed the outcome of the Trojan War. He acted like a coward when Achilles smashed his scepter and again when he sent his men instead of himself to seize Briseis. The only real power that he had was his status as king. Agamemnon may be a great leader but he is no hero.
Powerful, brave, and loving Hector put to war simply to help his brother Paris. Hector is possibly the only sensible character in the war. He proposes that the war should be resolved by a one on one fight rather than have thousands die. However, he is denied and still continues to fight Paris" war. Hector takes the responsibility of leading the Trojans and kills Patroclus. He mocks him as he dies which is a significant error for a .
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true hero to make. In the end, he is butcher by Achilles and his corpse is horribly dishonored. Hector loved his family and fought with nobility but died tragically. .
Achilles is the hero of the Trojan War. He is more of a flashy super hero type unlike the other heroes mentioned. He is super powerful and almost indestructible although his attitude is ruthless and his rage is uncontrollable.
