The Iliad, Book 22 summary

What happens

1. Apollo reveals his diversion to Achilles, who returns toward Troy, while Priam and Hecuba unsuccessfully beg Hector to enter the city.
2. Hector fears public blame for his failed leadership, but Achilles’ approach terrifies him into fleeing three times around Troy.
3. Jove weighs their fates, Apollo leaves Hector, and Minerva impersonates Deiphobus to persuade Hector to stand against Achilles.
4. Achilles rejects Hector’s proposed agreement about their bodies, receives secret help from Minerva, and wounds Hector fatally in the neck.
5. Hector begs for burial and warns Achilles of death; Achilles refuses mercy, strips the corpse, and drags it behind his chariot.
6. Priam and Hecuba mourn; Hector’s wife sees his body dragged away, faints, and laments their son’s vulnerability.

In this book

What to notice

Hector recognizes Minerva’s deception when no brother answers his request for another spear. His confidence in support gives way to a final decision to fight despite certain death.

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