Hector

Hector is a Trojan prince and Troy’s leading defender in Greek legend, best known from Homer’s Iliad. A son of King Priam, husband of Andromache, and father of Astyanax, he matters as a warrior whose duty to his city threatens everything he loves.

Key stories of Hector

Hector and his family

Before returning to battle, Hector meets Andromache and their young son. His love for them sits beside his belief that he must defend Troy.

In Homer’s Iliad, Hector’s child is frightened by his helmet. Hector takes it off, smiles with Andromache, and holds the boy.

In The Iliad by Homer

The death of Patroclus

Hector kills Patroclus, who has entered battle wearing Achilles’ armour. This brings Achilles back into the fighting to seek revenge.

In Homer’s Iliad, Apollo first weakens Patroclus, and another Trojan wounds him before Hector delivers the fatal blow. Hector later puts on Achilles’ armour.

In The Iliad by Homer

The fight with Achilles

Hector faces Achilles outside Troy and is killed. Achilles mistreats his body, turning victory into an act of bitter revenge.

In Homer’s Iliad, Hector runs from Achilles before turning to fight. Athena deceives him by appearing as his brother, and he discovers too late that he stands alone.

In The Iliad by Homer

Priam brings Hector home

Priam goes to Achilles to ask for his son’s body. Achilles gives it back, allowing Hector’s family and city to mourn him.

In Homer’s Iliad, Priam’s grief moves Achilles to think of his own father. The poem ends with Hector’s funeral rather than the fall of Troy.

In The Iliad by Homer

How to recognise Hector in stories

Look for Troy’s chief defender, a son of Priam.
Notice the helmet that frightens his young son.
Watch for a warrior torn between family love and public duty.

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Is Hector Greek or Trojan?

Hector is Trojan, fighting to defend Troy against the Greek army. Although his story belongs to Greek literature, he stands on the opposing side from Achilles and Odysseus. In Homer’s Iliad, his family life makes the suffering inside Troy especially clear.

Why does Achilles kill Hector?

Achilles kills Hector to avenge Patroclus, his beloved companion. Hector has killed Patroclus in battle, though other attackers helped bring him down. In Homer’s Iliad, Achilles’ grief drives his revenge, but his later meeting with Priam makes room for shared sorrow.