Who Hector is
Hector is the eldest son of Priam, the aged king of Troy, and the city's main fighter. He leads the Trojan struggle against the Greek army besieging his home.
Away from battle, he is a husband to Andromache and father to their baby son, Astyanax. These ties show a tender side of the warrior who fights in the front line.
What Hector wants
Hector feels bound to defend Troy, even though he believes the city will fall one day. He fears for Andromache, especially the prospect that she could be taken away as a slave. Yet he cannot accept staying behind the walls when duty calls him into battle.
Hector and the others in the story
Andromache begs Hector to stay safe because Achilles has taken her father and brothers from her. Her plea brings his duty to the city into conflict with his place in their family.
When Astyanax cries at his horsehair helmet, Hector laughs and takes it off. He lifts his son and prays that the boy will grow stronger than his father.
Questions
Who is Hector in The Iliad?
Hector is a Trojan prince, Priam's eldest son, and the warrior who leads Troy's defence.
Who is Hector's wife?
Hector's wife is Andromache, and their son is Astyanax. She urges him to remain inside Troy's walls rather than risk himself in battle.
Why does Hector keep fighting?
Hector keeps fighting because he feels responsible for defending Troy and cannot bear to act like a coward. His devotion to his family does not remove that sense of duty.