Who Is The Hero Of Iliad In Greek Mythology?

Achilles is the undisputed hero of 'The Iliad,' but what makes him stand out isn’t just his prowess in battle. It’s his emotional arc. From his withdrawal due to Agamemnon’s insult to his devastating loss of Patroclus, every step feels raw. The scene where he drags Hector’s body around Troy is horrifying yet mesmerizing—it shows how far he’s fallen into wrath. But then there’s his quiet moment with Priam, where he sees the father’s pain and relents. That duality is what cements him as a legend.

Some argue Hector is the true hero, but the story isn’t about Troy’s defense; it’s about Achilles’ journey. Even the gods intervene because of him. His armor, his choices, his mortality—everything revolves around his character. Homer doesn’t just paint a warrior; he gives us a man who’s larger than life yet painfully human.

When diving into 'The Iliad,' it’s impossible not to fixate on Achilles. He’s the central figure, a demigod whose choices shape the entire war. What’s captivating about him isn’t just his invincibility in battle but his humanity. His feud with Agamemnon over Briseis shows his pride, while his bond with Patroclus reveals his capacity for deep love. The moment he re-enters the battlefield, consumed by vengeance, is chilling. Hector’s death at his hands is brutal, yet Achilles’ later mercy toward Priam when he returns Hector’s body adds layers to his character.

Another angle is how Achilles embodies the Greek ideal of kleos—glory through action. His short life is destined for greatness, and he embraces it, even knowing it leads to his death. Contrast this with Odysseus, who’s clever but not the hero of this tale, or Hector, who fights for Troy but lacks Achilles’ divine edge. The poem’s focus is clear: Achilles’ rage, his grief, and his eventual reconciliation with fate make him the heart of 'The Iliad.'

I've always been fascinated by Greek mythology, and 'The Iliad' is one of those epic tales that never gets old. The hero of the story is undoubtedly Achilles, a warrior whose name is synonymous with strength and tragedy. His rage and pride drive much of the narrative, especially after his best friend Patroclus is killed by Hector. The way Homer portrays Achilles is complex—he’s not just a brute but a man torn by grief, honor, and destiny. His heel might be his weakness, but his character is what makes him unforgettable. The scenes where he mourns Patroclus and later faces Hector are some of the most powerful in ancient literature.